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(UN)FOLLOWING THE PACK

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sun, 28 Jul 2013 18:16:00 +0000

Here are 8 trends that are everywhere right now and their less trendy alternatives. Personally, I don't like wearing or having the same fashion that is just everywhere all the time, regardless of how much I might like it.

There are always ways to make a trend your own.

1. Reflective sunglasses -- opt for solid colored, lighter shades instead

2. Excessive arm candy -- keep things minimal, staple pieces will last longer

3. Isabel Marant sandals -- go for a bright sandal that can still work as a neutral

4. Numbered jersey shirts -- leave Sporty Spice looks in the 90's

5. Overly bold brows -- natural is better, try fuller rather than stronger

6. Maxi dresses -- midi dresses! show some of that scandalous ankle

7. Printed trousers -- printed playsuits really are effortless, but look far more interesting & put together

8. Ombre hair -- instead, go for all over dimension!

All images via Pinterest

REVIEW: COVERGIRL LASH EXACT WATERPROOF MASCARA

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sat, 13 Jul 2013 21:07:00 +0000

It's been a long time since I posted here. I'll spare the boring details of how work or play stole my attention and dive right into this review.

Rubber bristle wand! No clumpy and combs through perfectly.

Covergirl's Lash Exact Waterproof Mascara is a definition-long-lasting-freak's dream. My lashes are the type that are long and wispy, but are not super curly. They fall easily and clump easily, so I have to be pretty particular about my choices. LashBlast is too enormous and any other bristle-y wand clumps so fast. So, if you prefer defined lashes that don't flake-- go for this one. Here are the lovely shots of my creepy eyeballs before & after.

A sad, naked, emo eye-- complete with MySpace pic side glance. And yeah, I curled them.

Other eye with product. Bottom and top coated once.

Once more with these daddy long leg lashes.

I use the color Very Black - waterproof.

I give it an A, not A+ because it is somewhat tricky to remove.

But, at least the "waterproof" claim is 100%.

TEXTURES: SUNDAY

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 20:48:00 +0000

Today is about textures, light, and shapes.

I'm spending the afternoon reading and being a lifeless body with my cat.

via Pinterest

TODAY'S BREAKFAST

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 22:18:00 +0000

For some very strange reason, I like to photograph toast.

This was my breakfast today.

| mozzarella with seasoning salute & berry preserves |

SUMMER BOOK CLUB

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 20:18:00 +0000

Here is my summer reading list for this year. As you can see, I'm going on a bit of an Edith Wharton kick. Also, I included Gwyneth Paltrow's new book because lately I've needed some fresh ideas on easy recipes, and I know her's will be healthy versions. My "book club" has a noticeable concept, at least I think so. I didn't even realize it, but as I was browsing Amazon, I tried to search for books that aren't nighttime books, if that makes sense. Some books, in my opinion, you just can't read in the morning or daytime because it would conflict with the story's vision. Novels that are primarily romance, or involving travel, I tend to enjoy in the daylight on my bed or couch. It let's my imagination thrive a bit more because of the outside sounds and smells.

| Summer | Edith Wharton

| Paris: The Novel | Edward Rutherfurd

| Beautiful Ruins | Jess Walter

| The House of Mirth | Edith Wharton

| It's All Good: Delicious, Easy, Recipes That Will

Make You Look Good and Feel Great | Gwyenth Paltrow

All images via Amazon.com

LISTENING

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 02:34:00 +0000

Loving Sam Cooke, Youth Lagoon, Leonard Cohen, Balmorhea, Lana Del Rey, Lykke Li, St. Vincent, The Carpenters, and Nat King Cole this month.

CURRENT DESIGN INSPO: MINIMAL JEWELRY

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 19:09:00 +0000

Soon I'll be starting to create pieces for my Etsy shop, kkachi. I'm not a big jewelry wearer as I prefer the more minimalist approach. These are some pieces I like and I think they're simple, but not boring. While bib necklaces and obnoxiously overwhelming "arm candy" look great on some people, I really think pieces that accent the total look tend to be more flattering than one single statement piece.

PHOTOGRAPH OF THE DAY: CARA

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 16:31:00 +0000

Currently absolutely loving this photo of Cara Delevingne.

via Pinterest

SUNDAY FAVORITE: BEAUTY PRODUCT

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:18:00 +0000

Today I decided I'd share with you a product I've been using since around December. It's the bareMinerals Round The Clock waterproof eyeliner in Midnight that my mother gave me from her holiday gift set. Basically, it's a gel liner in pencil form. This is, by far, the best long wearing liner I've ever tried. I wear it on my upper water line every single day, for about 12 hours, and it never moves. I'm sure it would probably last all night. With that being said, it is very easily removed with make-up remover, which is such a blessing. I use Pond's Cold Cream to remove my make-up, and I've never had an issue with removing it.

This product retails for $15.00, which I personally believe is accurately priced for the quality! Also, I love the packaging. The matte finish on the pencil's body in contrast with the lid & base is really nice. (It's so smooth when sharpening too!)

Above: I swatched this with such a gentle & light stroke, and the intensity pay off is amazing.

Below: I waited 30 seconds to test the smudge range and I was actually shocked at how quickly it dried. You can see I barely had any smudging until the very tail end of the swatch. Absolutely brilliant.

Holy grail waterproof eyeliner!

LIGHTER HUES

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 14:52:00 +0000

The days are slowly brightening and regaining breaths in familiar streaks of the sunlight.

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I'm lying in a sea of blankets, tossed about in a half-lit room on a rainy Chicago morning. I'm thinking of the spring that's barely here and the summer soon to follow.

Images via Etsy & Pinterest

SLEEP

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 15:36:00 +0000

This is what my morning looks like

SHOP: NEW ITEMS ON KKACHI

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 17:56:00 +0000

I just listed this item in my shop, along with others! They're beautiful, mustard colored Evan Picone heels in perfect condition. Not too tall, not too stubby. I think they'd go perfectly with a clean, button up shirt or flared skirt for spring.

Images via Etsy & Pinterest

ETSY ENVY: PERPETUAL ONE

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 03:41:00 +0000

Just browsing Etsy and admiring these lovely things by PerpetualOne.

TOTAL LOOK: LIGHT SPRING

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 22:09:00 +0000

Spring is in full effect over at Steven Alan. The sandals are from Pinterest- but SA's got pages of shoes to choose from. Although I'm still in the middle of 30 degree weather and possible winter storms looming, I'm already planning outfits in my head. Combinations of light greys, taupes, and browns mixed with some bright corals, yellows, and emeralds are circling my mind.

Images via Steven Alan & Pinterest

SHOP: NEW ITEMS ON KKACHI

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 15:47:00 +0000

My etsy shop, kkachi, has some new items I'd like to share on here! These lovely star things are actually knitted pot holders! They're clearly not your average pot holder, which is why I love them. The colors are beautiful.

If you need something to fill in a small space on wall or bookshelf, or you simply love strawberries & muslin, here's a hand stitched frame of the two!

All images via kkachi on Etsy

COLLECTION ENVY

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 01:01:00 +0000

I'm loving every detail of this collection down to the simplistic, pointed skimmers and the subtle contrast in similar colors. I wish every piece and accessory could be in my possession right now.

All images via Style.com

Want this look?

via 1 // 2 // 3

MY SIMPLE SKINCARE

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 20:38:00 +0000

My philosophy: skincare should be easy. Nobody wants to go through a dozen or more steps of rubbing things on their face before bed - as well as when they wake up. The simpler, the better. Plus, I, personally, believe that the more complicated you make it, the worse it might be. Skin is sensitive. It doesn't matter if it's oily, dry, or combination - it's skin. If it doesn't like something, it will be agitated. Layering on multiple products is just layering on more and more chemicals. My suggestion: keep it down to 2 or 3. Your products will work more efficiently and if something doesn't work, you'll most likely know what it is right away!

My skin: dehydrated

I very rarely have a breakout, but my skin is very dry. During summer it's not as dry, but I still feel that tightness after cleansing my face, before applying moisturizer. I use Aveeno Smart Essentials Daily Detoxifying Scrub because it's so gentle, deeply cleanses, and doesn't irritate my skin. It's gentle enough to use every night - especially to rid any dry skin patches! I use Cetaphil's Moisturizing Cream as a facial moisturizer, although I think it's used for body as well. It's thick enough to quench my skin's thirst, but not leave it feeling greasy!

These products are also extremely affordable. Especially the Cetaphil cream - it lasts for so long! The cream has no scent - which can sometimes agitate very sensitive skins - so that is a huge plus! The Aveeno has a very light, sweet scent that is refreshing and really pleasant in the shower.

Overall: These are currently my only skincare products and they're working beautifully. Keep it simple & easy. Allow your skin to be naturally healthy rather than soaked up with product.

Oh yeah, and drink lots of water.

// my current brow routine - click here //

FAVOURITES: BREAKFAST

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sat, 09 Mar 2013 18:33:00 +0000

My favourite time of the day and favourite meal any time of the day is breakfast. Sleepiness overcome by hunger, and the fresh brew that perfumes the entire house - these moments are almost poetic. There's nothing poetic about lunch.

Photos of breakfast are always so romantic, even if it's just pouring creme into your espresso. There's a harmony about it - a gratification. When I wake up, the first thing I feel is tiredness and hunger. The first bite of something you eat for the day is a satisfaction I can't simply explain. Or perhaps I just really love toast.

via 1 // 2 // 3

NEED & WANT: LINENS

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 22:57:00 +0000

I've decided to call my design concept posts "Needs & Wants" for two reasons. The need because I typically produce an idea or design for the sake of my own cravings. It may be a bit on the selfish side, but designing for yourself comes naturally- every writer has a diary, don't they? The want because after I get these design spurs, I typically lust after them and photos of inspiration for many, many weeks. As of late, I've been constantly thinking about nothing else but linen. Linen tanks, blouses, shorts, dresses, etc. Like most Midwesterners, this is about the time I long for summer and those balmy nights. Every season I search for pieces that are easy, and simple. This year, I've decided to take on the challenge of making them. Delicate pieces easily slipped in and out of, marrying the space between body and air.

via 1 // 2 // 3

BACK TO DETAILS

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sun, 03 Mar 2013 00:37:00 +0000

Recently I've been seeing these dresses all over my Pinterest. Cutouts aren't anything new these days, but I think having interesting back details can make a dress so subtly beautiful and unique. This style was once off putting to me because I just didn't really like "strappy" things. Now, I feel like there are so many new styles out there that remain, I hate to use the most overused word in the fashion dictionary, but "classy" rather than tacky, like the $6.99 jersey knit dress picked up at your local __-Mart.

Images via Style.com & Pinterest

HOW TO: NATURAL BOLD BROWS

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 15:54:00 +0000

via Pinterest

Photos of Cara Delevingne are everywhere. Literally, everywhere. Unless your completely absent from social media (or you only use this Internet thing for actual news worthy information), you've probably seen her picture here and there. Anyways, what's more fascinating than trying to figure out her last name pronunciation are her eyebrows. Brooke Shields is not her mom.

So, for all of you over-pluckers, take note- your brows should not be an ant trail of a line. My natural brows are, unfortunately, not as thick as Delevingne's, but they span almost completely down to the crease of my eyelid. Thanks, Dad.

If you'd like to see how I thicken up my brows, here is a photo tutorial of my daily routine. Click to continue reading!

Keep in mind, if you're the type of person who likes clean, defined brows- this is not for you. I prefer to keep mine looking as natural as possible.

Also, I have absolutely no other makeup on. Ah!

Step 1. Groom brows with a spoolie (or disposable mascara wand!)

Step 2. Choose a harder, waxier pencil. I use Rimmel Eyebrow Pencil in 004 Black/Brown.

Kohl pencils are too soft for brows. I also don't like using a powder because I think it can appear muddy and flat. Waxy, hard brow pencils allow you more control to create feathery, natural looking strokes. And they stay on longer!

Step 3. Fill in your brows using light, gentle, and feathery strokes.

I suggest starting from the arch so you can decide the shape of the overall brow. Also, the darkest and most defined part of the eyebrow should be the arch. Do this step in a messy fashion, the effect is supposed to be natural, slightly unkempt, and thick. It does not need to be perfect!

Step 4. Comb through brows with your spoolie once again

With a light touch! You don't want to brush and smear away the product, just distribute a bit.

Tip: When combing the product through, brush the hairs outward, upward, and even downward. I find that this helps me see where I may need to add a bit more product and also, it helps give the brows volume (for that textured look versus drawn on look).

Step 6. Touch up any areas if need be!

Try not to "fill in" or create brows where they wouldn't naturally grow. Currently, I'm growing even my little baby hairs at the bottom out, so each week I notice I can go a little further with the pencil. The trick is to just keep it as natural as possible.

Step 7. Brush hairs at the beginning upward

This is key! Brows appear thicker and more flattering when the start of the brow is a bit sparse and pointing up. I barely add any product to this area, if any at all. If your brows don't naturally do this, just create a FEW light, feathery strokes there.

Step 8. Grab a fluffy powder brush

This next part may sound strange, but trust me, it works.

Step 9. Grab a face powder that matches your skin tone or is translucent

The one I use is Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in 004 Sandstorm. This powder is basically translucent on my skin.

Step 10. Push the powder very gently on your brow bone

Sweep the brush lightly over your brow. Remember to place the powder initially on your brow bone, not your eyebrows. This step sets the brows without adding more colored product to weigh them down. It also gives a nice texture to the brows if your hair are on the thinner side, like mine.

Here is the final brow outcome

See, no powdery mess!

fin

ETSY: NEW LISTINGS IN MY SHOP - KKACHI

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 02:20:00 +0000

My Etsy shop, kkachi has loads of new listings that you should check out! The pieces I sell are vintage & handmade items like home decor, crochet, vintage blouses, etc. This particular blouse I found in an ordinary consignment store. They obviously didn't realize it's brand name value for quality because it was shoved amongst a heaping pile of other (not so great) blouses. Luckily, I salvaged it! Enjoy x

Vintage Oscar de la Renta blouse - $20.00

kkachi

Vintage Cheryl Tiegs blouse - $17.00

kkachi

Vintage Lavender Blouse - $15

kkachi

Vintage Brown Multi Stripe blouse - $15.00

kkachi

Vintage Pale Yellow blouse - $15.00

kkachi

Vintage Red/Blue Plaid with Ruffles blouse - $16.00

kkachi

All images taken by myself

NEW COLLECTION: NASTYGAL SPRING 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 04:09:00 +0000

NastyGal.com has just released shots from their Spring/Summer 2013 collection.

"Beach goes beyond the outer limits of cool with sport-meets-space influence. Shop the latest collection, designed with love in Los Angeles!"

Be sure to checkout their New Arrivals and take advantage of their FREE 2-DAY SHIPPING on order over $150.

All images via NastyGal

REVIEW: KEVIN.MURPHY FRESH.HAIR DRY SHAMPOO

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Tue, 19 Feb 2013 16:44:00 +0000

Today's beauty review is a new product I just recently purchased, Kevin Murphy's Fresh.Hair dry shampoo. I bought this with my last haircut a couple of weeks ago, and it's the first dry shampoo I've ever used. From what I've read in other reviews, most dry shampoos leave a white residue (from the powdery, oil absorbing factor) or simply don't do the job.

This product smells SO GOOD. It's hard to describe its scent, but it's sort of like a vanilla and a light fruit mixture. It's lovely. And no white residue is left behind after a quick shake of the fingers. Actually, any residue at all is only visible if the product is applied to heavily I've found. My grading is as follows:

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Packaging - A

Formula - A

Efficiency - A-

Scent - A

Appearance - A

Control - A

Repurchase? Yes, definitely

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The only detail that might turn others off is the price, it's about $22 retail, but I purchased it from a stylist who's a friend for $15. Definitely not drugstore price point, but If you consider it's quality compared to drugstore products, I think it's worth it.

It's also cruelty free!

And a wonderful shot of my roots which I applied the product too! This is before I shook it out with my fingers (gently). You can see there's only a tiny bit of visible product - most of it is reflection from my bathroom light. I have very dark hair, so if it were noticeable, I would not use this product.

All images taken by myself

LFW: PAUL SMITH

noreply@blogger.com (Erin McLeod) — Sun, 17 Feb 2013 21:40:00 +0000

Although I'm not physically a part of London Fashion Week, I'm actively participating in viewing collections on Style.com

Paul Smith isn't a brand that has stood out to me in past seasons, but I'm really enjoying the notes of metallic and lightweight materials combined. The colors in their F/W 2013 collection are rich, deep, and lustrous - an ode to gems - and I can't help swoon over these dark ruby metallic trousers.

All runway images via Style.com

All other images via Pinterest