veanad

beauty talk

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 18:45:55 -0400

my first year of grad school will be over in a matter of weeks and i am excited to FINALLY have more time for veanad related things. posting has been limited mostly because i’m swamped at GSAPP and also because i’m working on a new site in addition to creating a personal online portfolio for my design work. if you’ve been keeping up with me on instagram / tumblr / twitter, you probably know the most exciting thing i’ve done around the city is go to a few exhibits like the basquiat exhibit at the gagosian gallery and the MoMA. hopefully my lack of activity will change now that may is around the corner.

superficial update: i’ve been slowly changing some things around with my beauty routine. i realize an updated skincare post is due, as i haven’t made one since last year but more on that another time. i know i’m late to the shellac party, but i recently got my nails done and i am fascinated by how durable the manicure is, even after a week. i don’t see the point in getting a traditional manicure anymore. as a chronic nail biter who gets distracted easily by chipped nails, i am relieved my nails look decent for once, though i am slightly horrified at the thought of what i’m going to do with all of the nail polish i’ve acquired over the last few years.

also, my bathroom is now filled with an unhealthy amount of new makeup thanks to NARS that i haven’t even come close to making a dent in. while i am the first to admit that it’s very easy to wake up most mornings and wear the same makeup over and over again (or even no makeup at all) i have been making an effort to try out several products from the line i’ve never used before in combination with products i already own.

this is what i’ve been reaching for the last few weeks:

FACE

nars tinted moisturizer :: i wear this year round, and it’s even better in warmer weather when skin isn’t as dry. i write about this all the time because i’ve been wearing it for a year now and am still just as happy with it as i was when i first purchased it. better than laura mercier if you ask me!

guerlain bronzer :: i purchased this over 6 months ago, use it every day, and it still looks like i’ve barely used it.

illamasqua blush in ‘chased’ :: i like the color payoff and the shade. the color looks more intimidating than it really is and it helps me look more awake (a necessity when gong to architecture school).

EYES

nars shadow in ‘biarritz’ :: i apply this all over the lid. i am a matte shadow girl, so this is right up my alley. a staple that i will be purchasing after it runs out.

nars shadow in ‘blondie’ :: a taupe shade that i apply in the crease to add depth to the eye. blends easily and is not overly pigmented. it’s therefore hard to mess up application, especially for a daytime look.

nars pencil :: i have been using their black pencil for years and with this look, i use it to define my waterline and tight line my upper lid.

nars soft touch shadow pencil in ‘empire’ :: this is certainly one of those products that i can’t be without yet i would have never known about it on my own had it not been sent to me. i use this several different ways. today, i’m wearing it smudged under my lower lash line to intensify the eye, but i’m also wearing it as a brow filler. i am impressed with it as a brow filler because it blends in naturally after brushing through it. certain brow products can often be too pigmented and harsh. this can also be used all over the lid, but i haven’t tried it yet.

clinique doubling mascara :: my favorite mascara as of late. no clumps and it does not come off during the day. it adds length and volume and best of all, it removes easily with makeup remover.

overall this eye look is dramatic and sharp but still very light and easy to wear during the daytime.

MoMA: inventing abstraction

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:54:00 -0400

i visited the MoMA’s inventing abstraction exhibition this weekend and left feeling very inspired and full of questions about my own work at GSAPP. although i’ve been here since september, it is still hard to believe that many of the works and buildings my professors discuss in school are only a few subway stops away.

the main focus of my work this semester relates to the question of traditional visual representation in the field of architecture and developing my own language with which to represent myself as a designer. part of my research includes studying building and art precedents as well as borrowing representational techniques from various disciplines, including performative arts, cinema, and art. many of the works on display at the MoMA serve as the perfect primary sources for this exploration. i was so surprised to see how spatial and temporal many of the works are. if you haven’t had a chance to visit the exhibition yet or can’t make it to the MoMA anytime soon, be sure to visit their website, as they have a really gorgeous and intuitive interactive interface with almost (if not all) of the works in the collection available online. enjoy!

travel bag

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 18:02:38 -0400

in honor of spring break (more like snow break if you ask me), my boyfriend and i have decided to take an overnight trip to boston. overpacking is a pet peeve of mine, so i always try to make sure whatever i bring with me is versatile and exactly what i need. this is what my makeup bag looks like for the trip:

guerlain bronzer + mac 138 :: this fluffy and fat tapered brush is perfect for applying bronzer and contouring. i’ve had it for years and use it every day. guerlain makes the best bronzers, in my opinion.

nars ‘deep throat’ blush + nars #6 :: the blush brush is a new addition to my brush collection, but it has quickly become one of my favorites. this blush is a bright coral pink that goes with any eye look. a no-brainer.

nars duo ‘madrague’ + nars brushes #13, #12 :: when packing, a duo eyeshadow palette is pretty much essential - saves space and allows you to create multiple looks depending on how you blend the shadows. i like to use the large domed brush to sweep the lighter color all over the lid, and contour the eye with a matte brown shade and small domed brush.

nars eyeshadow ‘night flight’ + mac 239 :: for a more intense look, this navy blue/black shadow is perfect for a smokey eye. i also like to use the mac 239 brush to push this into my lower lash line for a night time look.

nars tinted moisturizer :: my number one secret beauty weapon. foundation is too heavy, plus packing a separate SPF is too much hassle. this provides me with the coverage i need plus has built-in SPF. because this is not heavily pigmented, i opt for a shade lighter which acts as a highlighter for my face. perfect for that dewy look.

rosebud salve :: my favorite lip balm. i am not big on applying lip products, plus when i’m traveling a no-fuss look is important. this keeps my lips hydrated, and it can be applied elsewhere (cuticles, dry skin patches, over the lid) if need be.

ysl faux cils mascara :: a good mascara is all you need. if i find myself staying somewhere overnight unexpectedly and haven’t brought my makeup, i make sure to at least pack a tube of mascara in my purse.

nars pencil + stylo eyeliner :: i use the pencil liner to line my waterline and underneath my lower lashes. i use the liquid stylo liner for my top lid (both in black). the formula doesn’t smudge. it’s great for traveling because it really does stay on all day.

the book cover archive

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 20:23:00 -0500

i came across this fantastic website today, the book cover archive, and it’s exactly what it sounds like: a website dedicated to great book cover designs. i’ve found a lot of really great covers already that i plan on saving as reference and inspiration and i figured you guys would also appreciate it. i also just saw that you can subscribe via RSS - just scroll all the way down to the bottom of the home page.

on an unrelated note: i have (finally) come to terms with the fact that as a one-woman show, it is impossible to keep up with all the social media platforms and websites out there. as such, i plan on closing a few accounts that feel redundant or excessive and really making sure that the platforms i use each serve their own purpose. at the moment my recommended products and purchases can be found exclusively through my luvocracy account (instead of through pinterest and luvocracy). i am also in the process of closing my copious and poshmark accounts and focusing on my personal shop instead. i will be adding more current items from my wardrobe to the shop this month (new asos pumps that don’t fit, some citizens of humanity jeans, etc.) and i’ll be sure to let you know once they’ve been added.

nars collaboration

Sat, 02 Mar 2013 01:34:00 -0500

i am so unbelievably excited to announce that i had the amazing opportunity to partner with NARS cosmetics this past month in order to help launch their new collection of satin lip pencils. long time readers know that i am a big, big fan of NARS and that i have consistently been recommending many of their products over the years. when they approached me i knew immediately that it was a perfect and organic fit.

in order to help launch the new collection, i have created a pinterest board (in true veanad fashion) filled with gorgeous inspirational editorials featuring none other than the iconic red lip. i’ve been testing the new collection for the last few weeks and my favorite part about the pencils is that they’re really hydrating and wear easily throughout the day. the 4 red shades within the collection are available for purchase exclusively through my board, from now until march 7th. if you’re interested in checking out the nudes and pinks, i encourage you to visit bekka palmer and caitlin cawley’s boards.

if you happen to be in new york, jenny smith, the lead makeup stylist at NARS will be hosting an event at their flagship boutique to test out the new collection on march 9th. you can read more about the launch here. feel free to let me know if you have any questions and have a great weekend!

byzantine art meets fashion week

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:33:00 -0500

it’s been weeks since i’ve posted, but i’ve been doing my best to keep up with all the latest posts, especially those related to fashion week. there have been so many great looks this year, but rarely do i ever get this excited about a particular show. the looks from the dolce & gabbana fall/winter 2013-2014 show in milan are so rich and intense.

ps: i have some exciting news to share with all of you tomorrow! can’t wait to fill you in.

the monday lookbook

Mon, 28 Jan 2013 09:00:56 -0500

the weather in nyc this last week or so has been bitterly cold, so i’ve been staying warm by wearing lots of layers and this puffy coat. since the weather should be warming up just a tiny bit this week, i’m excited to shed a few layers and pair my a few of my outfits with my new boots! how have you been staying warm?

currently coveting

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 00:27:00 -0500

hi everyone! i feel like every time i sit down to write a new post i have been starting them off with “sorry i’ve been MIA, but…” i am beginning to realize that daily posts are nearly impossible at this point given my workload, but i’m hoping that you’ll still check in despite the infrequent posting. in any case! i’ve had an exciting few weeks in the city, and the new semester has officially started so i’m finally getting back into a more familiar routine. not really a new years resolution girl, but i am determined to find a better balance when it comes to juggling all the things i want to do both in and outside of school this semester. happy to report that i’ve actually made time to go see some great exhibitions. (aren’t you proud?!) hopefully i can set aside some time this week to post about them in case any of you are in the city and want to check them out!

i should also mention that being a poor graduate student coupled with the fact that i am pretty busy has unfortunately resulted in a very limited amount of time discovering awesome finds on the internet/in stores to share with you all. fret not, however - there’s always something i’ve got my eye on - and these are the things i’ve been coveting as of late. enjoy!

proenza schouler ps1 pouch $1325 / michael kors watch $239 / el croquis magazine / dream collective snake bangle $100 / barneys platform ankle boot $495

jeffrey montes

Sat, 05 Jan 2013 05:57:00 -0500

by now i’m sure you’ve noticed several photos here on veanad with a striking little “M” in the bottom right corner. one of the major aspects of veanad that i have grown attached to is the anonymity behind it all; i don’t often post images of my personal life. rather, i spend more of my energy sharing what i like and find inspiring with you all. and while this blog has never truly been about me, jeffrey’s work has allowed me the rare opportunity to occasionally share with you all a more intimate, personal side of me. i thought it only fitting to let you get to know him as well.

like me, jeffrey is currently a graduate student working towards his master’s degree in architecture at columbia. in addition to being a very talented designer, he is also a photographer, musician, and the creative force behind these photos. perhaps one of the most satisfying parts about studying at columbia is the fact that already, i have met an incredible amount of talented, vibrant, intellectual individuals - and jeffrey is no exception. i encourage you all to visit his flickr and website (where you can find links to things like his tumblr, facebook page, and contact information if you are interested in learning more about his work/rates). in the meantime, i leave you with two portraits of yours truly along with two of his photographs i am personally fond of.

mood board

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 23:17:28 -0500

1 / 2 / 3 / 4

for whatever reason, i’ve been feeling extra dark and moody these days so it’s no surprise this mood board is a little more mysterious than usual. the lighting and mix of patterns in that last photo kills me. be sure to click the link to her blog.

2013

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 20:18:00 -0500

in honor of the new year, i wanted to pause for a moment and extend my deepest gratitude to all of you for your overwhelming support and encouragement. over the last year, veanad has surpassed my wildest expectations in every way possible. this year alone, i have been fortunate enough to experience a handful of amazing milestones that i am incredibly grateful for; ones that i have never even thought were possible. i am excited for the possibility of what lies ahead and hope that you will continue along this adventure with me. thank you for everything!

wishing you all a happy and healthy new year,
danaë

the monday lookbook

Mon, 24 Dec 2012 18:07:00 -0500

merry christmas eve! i hope you are all getting a chance to relax during the holidays and catch up with family and friends. i’m home with my family for a quiet christmas this year, and have been trying to squeeze in some last minute gift shopping today and yesterday. now that the semester is over, i’m excited to slow down a bit and focus my energy on other projects before school starts again. my new imac (thanks santa!) should be coming this week, and i can’t wait to set it up so i can start working on my portfolio, the blog, and other design-related things.

ps: i created a facebook page for veanad for those who prefer to stay updated that way. enjoy!

pps: i’ve noticed that some of the images have been loading slowly these past few days on the site. i think there’s something wrong with the website i use to host them. i’m hoping things will get resolved quickly. sorry for the inconvenience, everyone.

gift guide: for her

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 17:50:00 -0500

okay, okay…so i’m a little late to the whole christmas gift guide series this year, but better late than never, right? and who actually shops for presents early anyway? in case you find yourself in a similar position as me this year and need to do a little last-minute holiday shopping, here are a few ideas. oh, and they’re all under $100. win!

marc by marc jacobs cosmetics case $88 :: the elements of typographic style $27 :: casio watch $25 :: voluspa candle $10 madewell earrings $24 :: acne card holder $80

the monday lookbook

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 01:40:00 -0500

happy monday everyone! i hope you are all doing well. i’m happy to say that the secret santa event hosted by j.crew and tumblr last thursday was absolutely wonderful and i was certainly in great company with some of my favorite bloggers (look you guys, the glorious back of my head made it onto j.crew’s blog. so honored).

we had a chance to exchange gifts and i was fortunate enough to be gifted this comfy sweater and bracelet. seeing as i’m in the midst of finals, this weekend has flown by with endless amounts of work, but i am excited to be on break soon for a few weeks. although i haven’t been able to enjoy the city as much as i would like to yet, i am hoping that will change now that i’ll have some free time. hard to believe it’s almost the new year already. where does the time go?

as of late

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 00:25:00 -0500

so sorry for the disappearing act these past few weeks. i’d be remiss if i didn’t admit that these last few months have been surprisingly difficult for a number of reasons. perhaps the biggest culprit for my absence has been my health - a trip to the hospital a little bit over a week ago has necessitated that i focus on getting back on my feet before being able to think about things like school and blogging.

luckily, i am feeling much better these days and am slowly getting back into my regular routine, despite some setbacks and trying to play catch up with my work. i am so thankful for having such an amazing support system to lean on lately and seeing as this is the first week where i’m really able to work and get back on track, i am extra excited i can celebrate feeling better by attending the tumblr and j.crew secret santa event this thursday. i can’t wait to let you know how it goes! xx

but does it float

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 00:45:00 -0500

i can’t even begin to describe how amazing this website is. a collection of various design and art work, but does it float has quickly become my new source of inspiration. i stumbled upon it by chance earlier this evening and i am so glad i did. i know what i’ll be doing this weekend…happy friday!

mix no. 07: paradise circus

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 23:19:00 -0500

in honor of tuesday tunes, i thought it’d be fun to make a new mix for you guys. i should probably preface this one by saying that this mix is slightly all over the place, but i’m hoping you’ll hear something you like! listen here.

01. if i had a heart: fever ray
02. paradise circus: massive attack
03. stillness is the move: the dirty projectors
04. consequence: the notwist
05. smoke and mirrors: gotye
06. shot in the back of the head: moby
07. five step (overdub bootleg): radiohead & dave brubeck
08. apartment: young the giant
09. sleep alone: two door cinema club
10. saeglópur: sigur rós

the monday lookbook

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 03:08:00 -0500

happy monday everyone! i hope your weekend went well and that you’re having a good start to the week. after a hectic few days at school and a mid-review, it was nice to finally be able to relax this weekend. i was fortunate enough to spend it with friends and last night i visited my parents for dinner back home. now that things have slowed down a bit, i’m excited to continue working on decorating the apartment and maybe even put a few more things up for sale on copious. what’s been on your to-do list recently?

luvocracy

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 02:09:00 -0500

i am extremely excited to announce the launch of a new website called luvocracy. long time readers know i am constantly recommending and sharing my favorite products and finds with all of you here, so when luvocracy asked me to become one of their tastemakers over dinner this month, i jumped at the chance. the website is a great way to shop and browse products from some of the most talented and inspiring designers/bloggers out there. there are a handful of tastemakers whose taste i truly admire and love being able to see what exactly they’re recommending.

if you’re interested in taking a look at some of my recommendations, you can follow me here. if you’re interested in joining, click here.

i’ll be updating the page frequently and will link to it under the ‘elsewhere’ tab, so check back often for new additions. also, i cannot stress enough that these recommendations are not promoted in any way - they’re all highly personal ones that i am confident in suggesting and talking about. if you happen to have any questions about a certain recommendation or want more information, just shoot me an email or leave a comment. i’ll be happy to respond. happy shopping!

the monday lookbook

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 01:06:00 -0500

happy monday everyone! ever since november appeared out of what feels like nowhere, the temperature in the city has definitely dropped and there is no denying the change in season. i’ve officially broken out the dark polishes (particularly this one and this one) along with cozy knit scarves. normally i am an absolute grump once it starts to get cold out, but this year i think i am actually looking forward to it. (sidenote: isn’t that sweater in the second picture perfect? i am on the hunt to figure out where it’s from!)