Trend Alert

Brighten Up Your Spring Beauty Routine with Neon Makeup and Beauty Tools

April 9, 2012 By Denise Shively Leave a Comment

This spring, there are a wealth of beauty products and makeup tools that add bright, punchy color to your look. Whether you’re daring enough to sport a neon eye, lip or nail look or would simply like to infuse your beauty routine with a brightly colored makeup tool, these products are must-have’s this season.

1. Sephora Collection Eyelash Curlers

These fabulously fun eyelash curlers are available in several bright, jewel-toned shades that are sure to liven up your morning routine. Color choices include:

Rose Quartz (pictured)
Emerald
Amethyst
Aquamarine

The curlers also come in 18k Gold and Black, but with four vibrant hues to choose from, why would you want anything else?

($16, Sephora)

2. Zoya Beach Summer 2012 Collection

Zoya Nail Polish released two summer 2012 collections (Beach and Surf,) but their Beach collection packs a vibrant punch that will be perfect for your next mani or pedi (in spring AND summer!) The shades include:

Reagan (fuchsia-pink)
Lara (Magenta)
Shelby (soft pink)
Arizona (bright orange – my favorite!)
Tracie (pistachio green)
Wednesday (turquoise)

Don’t be surprised if these colors become your go-to shades of the season!

($8/each or $48 for the set, Zoya.com)

3. NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Rated R

If you’re brave enough to wear this gorgeous shadow duo with shimmery chartreuse and cobalt, you simply must – it’s the perfect eyeshadow combo to turn heads. While there’s always a time and a place for neutrals, spring is all about livening up your look with unexpected pops of colors. You can also apply these sheer if you’re not quite bold enough to go all the way; they’ll still look stunning.

($34, Beauty.com)

4. Bobbi Brown Sheer Color Lip Gloss in Citrus

There are actually three shades in this neon lip gloss collection from Bobbi Brown (Ultra Violet and Cosmic Pink are the other two.) However, Citrus – a bright orange – is my favorite for the season, especially since Pantone named “Tangerine Tango” as the color of the year! This lightweight gloss will add a vibrant punch to your pout; pair it with a neutral eye for a look that’s simply smashing.

($23, Bobbi Brown Cosmetics)

5. Models Own Neon 5 Piece Brush Set

To round out the list of neon beauty must-have’s is this set of 5 bright orange makeup brushes from Models Own. The set includes a powder brush, lip brush, shading brush, angled brush and a blending brush in a fun hue that’s certain to look good on your vanity. You’ll be able to create a variety of looks with this brush set, but the best part – it’s cheap!

($17.91, ASOS)

Will you be picking up any of these neon beauty products or makeup tools this season?

Filed Under: Beauty, Trend Alert Tagged With: Bobbi Brown, Models Own, NARS, neon beauty products, neon makeup, Sephora Collection Eyelash Curlers, Spring beauty trends, Zoya, Zoya Beach Collection 2012

5 Must-Have Spring Beauty Products to Transform your Look

March 21, 2012 By Denise Shively Leave a Comment

If you want to get in on some of the hottest beauty trends this spring, take a look at these 5 must-have spring beauty products. Trust us – they’ll help transform your look from ho-hum to wow!

1. Tarte Maracuja Blush & Glow

Skin is in this spring – glowing, luminous skin that is! With Tarte’s Maracuja Blush & Glow, you can transform your skin to look it’s glow-y, most radiant best. Available in three shades, this luminizer/blush combo looks great on bare skin or on top of foundation for a subtle hint of tint. You can also add a touch to your cupid’s bow, cheekbones, browbones or anywhere you need a hint of gleam!

($32, Sephora)

2. Urban Decay Lip Love Honey Infused Lip Therapy in Drizzle

For a pale pink pout, this lip gloss from Urban Decay is the must-have lip product this season. Not only will this gloss make your lips look and feel great, plus the honey flavor tastes absolutely divine. If you’d rather have bold, look-at-me lips, never fear – Lip Therapy is available in 5 tantalizing shades, including a gorgeous peach that will make your pout pop.

($12, Beauty.com)

3. Milani Neon Nail Lacquer

Available in six neon shades, this budget-friendly nail lacquer is the perfect way to dress up your tips and toes this season. While pale pastels are normally the traditional spring shade, have a little fun this season in bright nail colors that simply beg to be noticed. Pictured: Awesome Orange.

($4.49, Drugstore.com)

4. Ulta Eyeshadow Quad

Achieve the perfect eye look with this eyeshadow quad from Ulta. Available in eight fashion-forward shades, these quads are perfect for taking the guesswork out of which shades go together. Plus, they glide on smoothly for gorgeous, crease-free color that lasts. Our favorite picks for spring: Girl Next Door (pictured) and Girls Night Out, a mix of gorgeous purples.

($12, Ulta)

5. Stila Creme Bouquet Rollerball

The quintessential spring fragrance in a convenient, take-anywhere rollerball – what can be better than that? This exclusive fragrance from Stila blends vanilla, pink lilac and lily of the valley for a scent that’s perfect for spring. Simply dab on pulse points and let the scent dry naturally for a gorgeous – but not overwhelming – fragrance.

($16, Stila)

Which of these spring must-have’s will you be picking up?

Filed Under: Beauty, Trend Alert Tagged With: 5 must-have spring beauty products, Beauty.com, drugstore.com, Milani Neon Nail Lacquer, Sephora, Spring beauty must-haves, Spring beauty trends, Stila Creme Bouquet, Tarte Maracuja Blush & Glow, Ulta Eyeshadow Quad, Urban Decay Lip Love Honey Infused Lip Therapy

Perish The Peplum

March 13, 2012 By Sara Cornell 1 Comment

Can someone explain to my why I’m supposed to want to add a PUPLUM to my wardrobe this season? The peplum, for you fashion newbies, is the flounce of material on a dress or skirt that adds a poof to your waist, abdomen and hips. See Exhibit A:

Personally, after 3 children, an appendectomy and abdominal surgery to correct a girly problem, the LAST place I want to draw attention to is my abdomen. The added material adds weight and bulk to that area so many women are trying to hide – and then mix it up with a heavy fabric and pattern – trust me, you’re not doing yourself any fashion favors.

I suppose if you’re Michelle Williams and have the body and build of a 12 year old you can successfully carry of said peplum, but for the rest of us mere mortals it’s a tricky fashion proposition.

Image courtesy of popsugar.com

Despite the attitude and general fierceness of these runway models, the peplum here isn’t really working any magic on them either:

Image courtesy of thetasteoffashion.blogspot.com

If you REALLY want to go peplum, try lightweight fabrics that drape nicely and have a bit of sway to them. Stay away from heavy fabrics that hold their shape like poplin and twill. And peplums will work best if you tend to wear skirts at your natural waist, rather than just below your belly button.

Image courtesy of capitalfm.co.ke

Also, make sure your hem length is in line with the most flattering part of your leg or the visual that will be projected is that you have too much material going on. (Check out the girl in the yellow dress above…yuck…)

If you’re feeling sassy and want to add a little drama and swag to your outfit, I say go for it. But if you’re trying to dress to look slim and sleek, adding a peplum probably isn’t the way to go. If you love peplums and think they are a great trend for this season, leave us a comment and tell us why, so we can share it with our readers. And if you wish the peplum would just go away, tell us that too. We love to hear from you!

Filed Under: Fashion Advice, How To Wear..., Outfit Ideas, Trend Alert, What Not To Wear Tagged With: fashion, Michelle Williams, Outfit Ideas, Peplums, Spring Fashion, Spring fashion trends, Trends

Apparel & Accessories at ModCloth.com Are Perfect for Spring

March 11, 2012 By Denise Shively 1 Comment

ModCloth.com, that funky purveyor of vintage-style clothing, accessories and decor, has plenty of apparel and accessories that are absolutely perfect for spring. Whether you’re looking for a new suit to lounge poolside, a whimsical spring dress or that perfect statement accessory, check out these must-have’s from ModCloth and get ready to shop ’till you drop!

Bathing Beauty Two Piece in Royal Plaid

Flattering on just about every body type, this two piece swimsuit comes in an adorable print that’s sure to turn heads. The slightly skirted bottom, halter neck and cinched top are totally retro and definitely cool. It’s this season’s must-have bathing suit!

($89.99)

Style Spectrum Dress

The gorgeous combination of punchy colors on this knit bandage-style dress is perfectly suited for the woman who isn’t afraid to showcase her bold personality. They suggest pairing this dress with boots, a cropped blazer and knit tights, but I say why cover up this colorful frock?

($49.99)

Nest Friends Forever Necklace

What could be more reminiscent of spring than this adorable necklace featuring two birds sharing sweet sentiments? Made from brassy metal with a stylish antiqued finish, this necklace will pair well with nearly any outfit in your ensemble. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to accessory this season!

($14.99)

A Coast Call Bag

This nautical-inspired handbag looks equally at home by the seashore or the city, and is large enough to store all of your essentials no matter where you’re headed. It even comes with an adjustable shoulder strap to help you carry your stuff in comfort AND style! Plus, it’s totally vegan – animal lovers, rejoice.

($64.99)

Boardwalk Arcade Wedge

These playful cork wedges are the perfect shoe for spring, whether you’re cruising an actual boardwalk or enjoying happy hour cocktails with your best girlfriends. They’re fun, colorful and the perfect way to jazz up a white cotton sundress or your favorite pair of skinny jeans and tank top!

($48.99)

Spring will be here before we know it, and these fun accessories and apparel from ModCloth.com will help all of us get in the right frame of mind for the season. Happy shopping!

Filed Under: Trend Alert Tagged With: modcloth, ModCloth.Com, Spring accessories, Spring Fashion, spring must-have's, Spring Trends

Fashion Resolutions for 2012

January 1, 2012 By Sara Cornell

Getting dressed this morning I realized that I grabbed the same jeans, the same sweater and the same style tunic slip that has morphed from my signature look into something bordering on the “I don’t care I’m, too busy/lazy/whatever to be creative with my wardrobe” look. Not good. So I mixed it up a bit, and while the theme was still the same, at least I had on a different style of jeans (read…clean!), a funky sweater that I hadn’t seen the light of day for months, and boots and accessories borrowed from my daughter’s closet.

I felt better. Brighter, a little more hip. So I resolved to be more creative with my wardrobe this year, and try styles and colors that aren’t typically in my go-to category. Here are some of the spring trends that I’d like to incorporate into my closet: Nude and Blush colors.

Image courtesy of Net-A-Porter

My neutrals tend to be black, white and grey, but I love the blush/peachy tones that can serve as a backdrop for bold and bright accessories.

Altuzarra dress. Image courtesy of Harper's Bazaar

Bright bold prints are here for another season. Worn correctly they can elongate the body and hide problem areas. This year I resolve to incorporate more pattern and print into my wardrobe and not think that black is the next best thing to Spanx.

Speaking of Spanx…my lingerie drawer needs a total makeover. No more sports bras for every day wear. No more panties with frayed elastic and loose lace. Starting from the bottom (layer) up, this is the year to wear bras that really fit and support, undies that work and “foundation garments” (as my mother would call them) when the outfit calls for it. A good slip or Spanx short can take a dress from nice to fabulous in about 5 seconds.

Image courtesy of Spanx.com

What are your fashion resolutions for the new year? Leave us a comment and let us know…

Filed Under: Accessories, Fashion Advice, Shopping, Trend Alert Tagged With: Fashion Resolutions, harper's bazaar, net-a-porter, Spanx, Spring fashion trends

5 Must-Have Winter Accessories

December 5, 2011 By Denise Shively

Accessories can make or break an outfit – that’s why you need these five must-have winter accessories to transform every outfit in your closet into a unique and stylish work of art!

Statement Necklace

Dress this necklace up or down with a basic tee and jeans or a killer little black dress and stiletto heels. However you style it, this gorgeous necklace will look right at home at every holiday party – I love how the drops look like little icicles!

($29.99, ModCloth.com)

Cocktail Ring

Most cocktail rings are oversize and very bold, but this vintage-inspired metallic rose cocktail ring offers a fashionable and more subtle approach. Layers of silver tone petals combine to form a beautiful rose, while the stretchy base ensures a perfect fit every time. Slip this on your finger for your next holiday fete and it’s the only accessory you’ll need to shine!

($20, 1928 Jewelry)

Bright Gloves

Frigid temperatures call or a functional way to keep your hands warm – but that doesn’t mean you have to stick to drab, boring gloves! Pick an eye-popping pair like these bright pink gloves to keep your hands warm this winter. The large bow detail gives them extra style points, too! Available in pink or red.

($54.90, Mango)

Floral Scarf

Even when temperatures drop, a floral scarf will help remind you that you have spring to look forward to! This scarf by Madewell features a delicate floral pattern against a white backdrop (also available in navy). Made from a wool-gauze blend, this scarf also features fringed edges for an extra special touch.

($52, Shopbop.com)

Go-Everywhere Handbag

Every woman needs a go-anywhere handbag in her arsenal, and this stylish tote from Jessica Simpson is simply perfect! Available in several colors, this handbag features two interior pockets to stash important essentials, plus double handles for the ultimate in carrying comfort!

($59.99, eBags.com)

What do you think of these must-have winter accessories? Do you plan to incorporate any of them into your winter wardrobe?

Filed Under: Accessories, Jewelry, Trend Alert Tagged With: Cheap accessories, must-have accessories, winter accessories, winter accessories 2011, winter fashion 2011

Winter Trend Alert: Red

December 1, 2011 By Denise Shively

When planning your winter wardrobe this year, focus on a key color trend that’s popping up everywhere: red! This bold color looks equally at home on chic dresses and bags as it does on footwear and accessories, so pick your poison ladies and don’t be afraid to experiment!

If you need a stylish bag that’s roomy enough to hold all of your essentials, this baggallini Shanghai Satchel Shoulder Bag fits the bill! Bold silver hardware, zipper pulls and an attractive design combine for a fully functional and oh-so-chic satchel. Two zippered pockets on the outside also allows you to stash your important items close, so you’ll always have them when you need them!

($52.49, eBags.com)

Granted, these are some very bold shoes – definitely not for the faint of heart! However, these super sexy heels are the perfect way to make a statement at your next holiday party! The glitter, oversize bow and sky-high heel height means you will definitely be turning a few heads when you wear these. Keep your dress simple to let your shoes be the focus, and you’ll be good to go wherever the holiday season takes you!

($89.95, ShoeBuy)

Adorn your wrist with these red metal bangles, complete with sparkly rhinestones, and you won’t need a single other accessory to make your winter wardrobe pop! These gorgeous bangles come in a set of four and are beautifully wrapped with a satin bow, making them perfect for gift giving too.

($39.90, The Limited)

For a fresh pop of color, don this low-back dress to your next holiday fete for a truly eye-catching look. The slight gathering at the waist offers a figure-flattering it, while the deep v-neck, low back and bold color will certainly turn heads. Pair with bangles and a cute pair of heels and you’ll have a look that’s ready to go wherever you do!