Gray Match Is a Beautiful Trend
April 7th, 2012
I spoke about the trend of matching makeup to clothes, now matching nail polish to your shoes is also becoming popular. When I was in high school we changed our polish every night to match our outfits, but never a pedicure! Seems a little time consuming, but beautiful non the less.
Do you do this, I may start now … cause I’m really liking it!
Happy Saturday and I hope your days are more exciting than ever right now. I have a fun new contest next week, can’t wait to share it with you!
Thanks for reading and commenting….you guys are the best! XoX
Bella
We All Need A Monday Pick Me Up! Gorgeous Nail Tutorial …
January 23rd, 2012
To get this look, you’re going to need a sheer, milky white polish; 3-4 complementary nail colors (we chose purple, hot pink, fuchsia, and baby blue); nail decals; polish remover, and a disposable eyeliner brush.
Fleury says it’s going to be easiest to unscrew all of the tops of your bottles before you begin this one — it takes a long time to dry and you’re more apt to smudge if you have to futz around too much. Start off by painting all of your nails with the creamy white polish (Fleury likes Color Club’s Bonjour Girl shade). “It helps to have a lighter base with these bright designs so that the colors pop more,” says Fleury. After this, you’re going to want to do one nail at a time, as you need the polishes to be semi-wet.
Starting at the base of the nail, paint a thick strip of color diagonally across the nail. Do this with all the colors, until you reach the tip of the nail. It’s okay if you overlap, since you are going to blend them anyways. Fleury recommends mixing up the order of the colors for each nail to give this look a more authentic feel.
While the polish is still wet, dip your eyeliner brush in some nail polish remover (it should be wet, not soaking) and, starting at the base of the nail, gently drag it up vertically through the colors. Do this in four separate lines, all the way across the nail. Repeat this on each nail, then wait for it to dry.
Apply a thick top coat to the nail, then grab an orangewood stick and tap it against the brush of the top coat to get a dab of it on the stick. Use that dab to pick up a star decal and place it on the nail, pressing it into the still-wet top coat on your nail. Repeat with a few different sizes of stars, or add some crystals if you’re feeling really fancy. Added bonus: The decals are really great at covering up any mistakes. Wait for it to dry, then apply another layer of top coat to the whole nail to hold it all together.
Hello everyone! Is this a happy mani or what? Perfect for Spring.
In other news, my weight loss update. I soooo went off the wagon this weekend. OMG so frustrating! Back on today with a delicious Lean Cuisine … kinda bleh, but two bike rides later I should be good. : ) { Down 15lbs in 23 days} yay, yay….
Happy Monday dolls…
Bella XoX
pics and article via Refinery 29
Gorgeous Alternatives To Standard Thanksgiving Decor
November 22nd, 2011
Thanksgiving is here, so our minds have turned
To what time has taught us, to what we’ve learned:
We often focus all our thought
On shiny things we’ve shopped and bought;
We take our pleasure in material things
Forgetting the pleasure that friendship brings.
If a lot of our stuff just vanished today,
We’d see the foundation of each happy day
Is special relationships, constant and true,
And that’s when our thoughts go directly to you.
We wish you a Thanksgiving you’ll never forget,
Full of love and joy—your best one yet!
I’ll be traveling for the holidays. Looking forward to playing in the snow! I’ll post some pictures from the road, and I truly hope hope you have the best Thanksgiving ever!
Bella
Caramel Pears
8-10 ripe pears, washed, dried, chilled
372 grams sugar (about 2 cups)
186 grams dark brown sugar (about 1 cup)
150 grams butter (about 2/3 cup)
2/3 cup corn syrup
1 cup cream
1 tsp. kosher salt
2 tsp. real vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients together (except the fruit) in a deep saucepan. Cook over medium high heat until the butter melts and temperature on a candy or laser thermometer reaches 246 degrees (119 celcius). Stir constantly toward the end of the cooking period to prevent scorching. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Dip fruit into caramel mixture and twist until evenly covered. Roll in nuts or sugar. Drain on waxed paper or a silicone baking sheet. Refrigerate. Consume pears within a few hours. Leftover caramel can be refrigerated and defrosted in the microwave for dipping fruit slices or served with the tart.
Apple Tart Crust:
140 g. sugar
400 g. butter
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
455 g. flour
1. Mix sugar, butter, eggs and vanilla with dough hook just until combined.
2. Add flour and mix until smooth. Do not over mix.
3. Flatten into disks and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate 30 minutes. (You’ll only use half the dough. The rest can be tightly sealed and frozen)
4. Roll or press tart dough into shells (about 1/4 inch thick)
5. Preheat oven to 400 degrees (205 celcius)
Apple Filling
6 medium apples, sliced
130 grams sugar
25 grams flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
Mix dry ingredients. Add sliced apples and toss with sugar mixture. Arrange apples over tart crust. Bake 45-55 minutes until crust is cooked through.
recipe via http://freshnewengland.com/home.html
Favorite Five This Week
November 19th, 2011
We all have those days when we get home from work and are rushing around with just minutes to create a fresh look. Here are my favorite products to spruce you up in just minutes!
SPF 15 is a mineral-based, baked fo
rmula that goes on silky-smooth for a bronzed glow that lasts.
If used properly this you will get this gorgeous glow! DO NOT use as an overall bronzer, otherwise you’ll look like you dipped your face in glitter. {hmmm its that a bad thing?}
DO apply to the smallest part of the top of your cheek bone slightly cascading the eye. All I can say is AH-mazing!!!!
Champagne Lip-gloss & Nail Polish
A new way to rock solid gold and champagne bubbles. This unique gift, a collaboration with Deborah Lippmann and Troy Surratt, contains flecks of gold glitter. The bubbly inspired lip gloss will give you a buzz, even though it’s alcohol-free.
Oh and could you DIE as to how cute this lip gloss champagne is?
Sold anywhere Almay is sold. These are perfect for a QUICK makeup touchup. Especially around the eyes! Love, love love…..
The mani-goddess Deborah Lippman and Juicy Couture have teamed up to create the must-have gift of the season. Hot color, hand-warmers, or as I like to call them {fingerless gloves}. A must for cold weather season. Throw on a pair of jeans, crisp white blouse and let your hands do the talking with these fabulous gloves.
How could one possible manage in this day of technology with your fingers all bundled up anyway?
Soft faux fur and a touch of cashmere add Nordic-inspired luxe to this extra fine merino wool blend vest. Shawl collar. Sleeveless. Faux fur front.
Crisp and classic, right? I’m so obsessed with this vest … it’s absolutely yummy. Adds just the right amount of GLAM to any outfit. Dress it up with your favorite jeans or get a more elegant look by pairing with head to toe white!
Well, what do you think of my FAVORITE FIVE products this week?
Happy shopping dolls and I hope you have a perfectly lovely weekend!
Bella
XoX
Holiday Eyes
November 13th, 2011
Holiday eyes gives you a moment to really express your inner DIVA. Watch this video as they transform Sydney’s eyes into a Winter Wonderland!
{holiday how to : glittery eyes} from {this is glamorous} on Vimeo.
S T E P O N E
begin by creating a base : prime the eyelid and the area beneath the eye with concealer and to ensure it stays put, dust on a layer of loose, matte powder
S T E P T W O
blend a powder eyeshadow over the eyelid; to make gaps less noticeable, choose a shade which complements your choice of glitter
S T E P T H R E E
take the eyeshadow underneath the eye and blend it along the lower lashes; then, work a black eyeliner pencil across the top and bottom lash lines, and along the upper and lower inner rims
S T E P F O U R
apply two coats of black mascara to the lashes
S T E P F I V E
dip a flat, synthetic eyeshadow brush in glitter glue [here or here] and press it over the eyelid, avoiding the lash line, as the adhesive can sting if it enters the eye
S T E P S I X
pick up some glitter on the same brush [as used in step five] and, using the flat side, pat it onto the eyelid; keep adding more until you build up the desired intensity
Another great example of a smokey eye combined with glitter. If you find it impossible to do it yourself, you can always take an image like this one to any makeup counter and they can easily recreate it for you!
Hope you had a great week and an even better weekend!
Bella
XoX
{all how-to instructions [with edits] from little miss makeup // original video created by little miss makeup for youtube // current video via this is glamorous on vimeo // image : planet blue holiday campaign // photography: zoey grossman // makeup: stacey tan // styling: ashley glorioso // model: sydney roper via studded hearts & a glamorous little side project}
This Season’s Must Have Poncho!
November 7th, 2011
Last week Gold, this week winter whites call for silver!
This weekend I purchased this Michael Kors fur neck poncho. Easily transform any outfit into GLAM.
It’s officially Fall in Arizona, warm drinks, fireplaces and bundled up attire everywhere I go. I spent the majority of my weekend re-organizing my closet and familiarizing myself with coats, scarves and hats!
Happy Monday Dolls!
Bella
XoX
Paris Street Style – Chapitre Neuf
November 6th, 2011
Dress from Debenhams // Sunglasses from Ray-ban // Leather jacket from Uniqlo // Bag from Yesstyle // sandals from Tory Burch.
Hoping everyone had a great weekend!
Bella
XoX
Gold Rush … Accessories Please!
November 1st, 2011
Saturday I had a blast shopping with my BFF Michele. After a brief lunch at our favorite restaurant, we began the hunt for accessories! I’ve always spoken here about the absolute necessity of accessorizing. And now that I am soooo obsessed with gold, I needed an overhaul to my jewelry collection.
We started out at Dillards in the shoe department, (yes shoes are an accessory) : ) where I found two new lovely pairs of shoes that were just DYING to come home with me! We barely made it out alive from the jewelry department, (umm they were having a sale), so don’t judge!
Michele and I often have the same taste, which creates a problem sometimes. Especially if they only have one! We generally tend to get over it and move quite quickly to the next item.
My major discovery of the day was Michael Kors. I did purchase a cover-up sweater poncho, button up the front piece. So unique I’ll have to photograph it for you. The pictures I found online did not do it any justice.
Always remember to be your most glamorous you can be! As illustrated in the first picture, your typical camel colored sweater. BUT, when you add the accessories it’s an all out drop dead gorgeous look!
Love this time of year when we can break out the sweaters, scarves and hats!
Happy November
Bella
XoX
Around The House … Details
October 29th, 2011
On my nightstand Rachel Zoe
My new obsession GUCCI Indy bag
My new wine glasses which have the most beautiful color tones.
Kissing Giraffe sculpture – Once I saw that cutest commercial on TV with this mini giraffe sitting on a pillow, the one where he leans over and gives his owner a little kiss … I’ve been obsessed with giraffes…. lol (have you seen )?
My crystal curtains – looks like it’s raining everyday!
My new dining room rug … love the contrast to the table. I spent so much time on this table it’s crazy. Can’t tell from this picture but there are a ring of swarovski crystals detailing the outside edge. Dining room chairs DIY in earlier post, purchased for 6.00 a piece and recovered with a little glitter fabric. Combined with the crystals and the crystal decor surrounding the table it looks quite amazing at night!
This crystal chandelier hangs in the corner of the dining room. Check out the next picture, the glow it puts out is gorgeous!
Sooo, do you love it or what? I find myself gazing into it all the time. : )
Crystal floral arrangement I made for my living room. Flowers purchased at Z Gallery.
My new manicure … another version of the reverse french!
My cozy patio where I blog from. Just beyond the fence you see in the background is a golf course. Always find the activities distracting… from the cute bunnies that romp the course to the oh so chic fashion that graces the greens everyday!
Happy Weekend Dolls!
Bella
XoX
Every Holiday Should Sparkle!
October 26th, 2011
It’s easy to transform any home into a haunted manor; here, a towering glittered pumpkin centerpiece, gothic silver candlesticks, and black candles shrouded in “spiderwebs” do the trick.
These synthetic pumpkins of varying sizes glisten with a spectral sheen thanks to coats of paint and ultrafine opaque black, silver, and charcoal (a mixture of black and silver) glitter. They are arranged on a tiered cake stand; layers of ‘Dusty Miller’ foliage and a slew of artificial spiders evoke a ghostly garden.
How to Make the Glittered Pumpkins
To decorate the pumpkins, first paint them black, then apply tacky glue to half of each pumpkin using a paintbrush. Hold pumpkin over a bowl filled with glitter. Spoon glitter over glued surface, making certain the glitter falls into all the crevices and sockets, and any excess lands back in the bowl. Place on a plate or tray and let dry for at least 1 hour. Tap or brush off any excess glitter. Repeat gluing and glittering on uncoated surface of each pumpkin until completely covered, and touch up other areas as needed.
Every holiday should sparkle, don’t you think?
Happy Hump Day Dolls!
Bella
XoX
Some Days You Just Don’t Wanna
October 23rd, 2011
Some days you just don’t wanna. For those days, try this! Seems like I’ve been seeing pictures of this lovely look everywhere. It’s definitely an easy, gorgeous ‘do. Here’s how to get this very uncomplicated knotted ponytail:
Tools
- light holding styling mousse
- comb
- small clear elastic
- large bobbypin
Instructions
- Apply a light holding styling mousse all over from roots to ends for texture and seperation. Hair can be damp or dry. (If it’s dry, be sure it’s a light holding mousse or you could end up with a strong holding mess.)
- Separate the hair over your shoulder into two pieces. The piece from the back should come forward and down (see photo).
- Using your girl scout skills, tie hair into a simple knot. [repeat]
- Secure the two ends together using a clear elastic. Once it’s in there, slide it up underneath the knot to conceal it.
- I like to throw a bobby pin in there for extra security.
- Back comb the ponytail a little for texture and then comb through it with your fingers to settle it.
Tip: Once the steps are complete, tug on it and mess it up a bit. This look is better when it’s a little disheveled!
via LaurenConrad.com
This Week’s Inspiration Board
October 23rd, 2011
This dress by Rachel Gilbert
Elie Saab Perfume
Dress Erin Fetherston
White Decor with Leopard
H &M jewels, threadscence hat
Crisp Fall Mornings
Elie Saab Gown - Just DREAMY
Bustling in London
This vintage skirt from YSL
This Zara skirt
Kim K saying goodbye to New York
I'm such a visual person, I think that's why as a little girl I use to dream through magazines. Now magazines have been replaced by websites, at least in my world. This week I gathered these pictures from the net that gave me design, fashion and glamour inspiration.
My inspiration board this week!
Happy Sunday Dolls!
Bella
XoX
images 5, 7, 8, 9, citified blogspot, images 6, 8, 10, 11, 13 late afternoon, 14 kim k, images 1, 2, 3, 4 the cherry blossom girl
Graffiti
October 21st, 2011
While I’ve often driven by Graffiti, I’ve never appreciated it as much as I did today! Someone quite talented hit this wall and I feel in love with the design. After leaving a luncheon today in Phoenix I just had to stop and check it out.
Happy Friday Dolls!
Bella
XoX
PS I don’t condone gaffiti … but this was out of control : )
Street Style Paris! en huit parties
October 17th, 2011
Inspiring photos from the streets of Paris. I definitely notice a difference, don’t you? And ummm, never seen a male look so CHIC in the USA! He’s divine… : )
I had the best weekend, shopping, dinners and lot’s of relaxation. I’ll post my hauls tomorrow , so many cute things, can’t wait to share!
How was your weekend? Hoping FABULOUS!
Bella
XoX
pics via EasyFashion
Catch A Falling Star & Put It In Your Pocket
October 14th, 2011
TOOLS
Silver metallic or glitter polish
Navy polish
10 reinforcement stickers
Clear top coat
STEPS
1. Start with clean, bare nails that have been filed.
2. Apply 1 to 2 coats of the silver polish (depending on the coverage of the polish). Be sure to paint your whole nail. If the color ends up showing through the navy polish it will just add a little sparkle, but it is important to have a smooth first layer. Let the polish dry for at least 30 minutes. It is important your nails are dry before placing the reinforcement stickers on them or else the stickers will peel off the polish and you will have to start all over again. Oh no!
3. Once nails are completely dry, place a reinforcement sticker on each nail with the outside of the sticker mimicking the shape of the moon of your nail. Cutting a slit in each sticker will allow the stickers lay more evenly on each nail. You can decide what size you would like the moons to be, but it is important that the size stay consistentacross all your nails for it to look right. Once they are all placed where you would like them, apply pressure to each making sure they are secure to your nail.
4. Now paint the top half or your nail with 2 coats of navy blue polish. Let this coat dry for at least 10 mins.
5. Once that’s dry, carefully pull the reinforcement stickers off of each nail.
6. Finish with a clear top coat.
Something fun to try this weelend! I love sharing with you the new trends I find. Would love to see your styles you create, send pics!
Have a beautiful weekend dolls!
Bella XoX
