Keyshia Cole Interview: Launch of Steve Madden Collection in Baltimore Maryland

To my suprise and excitement, Style Life Fashion was asked to interview Keyshia Cole on Saturday, September 21, 2013.  Keyshia was visiting the Baltimore area (Towson Town Center) to promote her new shoe collection with Steve Madden.

Of course, I was very excited to interview Keyshia Cole because I do like her music (we all have our favorite song) and personal style.  But, I could also relate to her in terms of fashion, music, and relationships.

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I truly enjoyed interviewing Keyshia Cole because she is very down to earth and passionate about her upcoming projects.  From our conversation, she is trying to expand her brand beyond music and aspires to have a lipgloss collaboration (Hello MAC, you have Rihanna…why not Keyshia.)

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Aside from the interview, her new shoe collection is hot.  I wanted to see the shoes for myself because in addition to being a fan of Keyshia Cole, I also like Steve Madden pumps and boots.

From color assorted pumps to lace up pointed stilletos, the Keyshia Cole collection will definitely be the shoe that every girl will want.  Most importantly, the shoes are affordable and I am secretly plotting when I will purchase a pair of shoes (the DIVA in black) from the collection.

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Lastly, fans in the Baltimore area did a fantastic job of welcoming Keyshia Cole to the area and truly showed support for the artist.  The event ended with Keyshia connecting with her fans while singing songs, playing games, and promoting her Steve Madden collection.

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Mommy-ista Dressing and Beauty Tips: Look Fabulous while Being a Mom

As a mom you’re busy going to school meetings, shopping for groceries, and picking up socks.  Honestly, there’s barely enough time in the day to get it all done, let alone time to fix yourself up. But mommy-istas, today is a new day!  We need to embrace motherhood with a sense of vengeance and look fabulous while on this journey.

There’s a few rules that every mom should remember as “the going gets tough.”  Rule number one: In order for everyone to be happy (and sane) in your home, your sense of happiness is very important.  Number two:  It’s completely okay to pick up a new tube of lipstick while shopping for pampers.  And number three:  Find a gym that has mommy daycare so everyone can have a “time out.”

Now that the rules have been established, let’s talk about looking fabulous.  With so many celebrity moms like Halle Berry, Kim Kardashian, and Jessica Simpson, they have opened the doors for better apparel and beauty products.

 

Your probably saying to yourself, “good for them” but becoming a mom’s truly a unique sisterhood. When you enter this girls club, there’s always the uncontrollable issue of time. Which means we need (better) products that get us out of the door quickly, make us look good, and are cost efficient.

Based upon my own experiences, I have decided to share a few “mommy” secrets in regards to dress and my daily beauty regimen. 

Mommy-ista Dressing Must Haves

1. A cute pair of flats: They can be purchased from Target or Channel but you need a pair of flats in your wardrobe…it’s difficult to chase kids in stilettos (honestly.)  Also, flats are perfect for when you wear heels and need to take a break.  You can carry flats in your purse and use them when needed.

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2. Jeans are purchased in three categories: You have date night jeans that are sexy, stylish, and slightly trendy. You have parent/teacher conference jeans that look appropriate with a blazer…not too tight or sexy. You have shopping jeans that are comfortable…not “mom jeans” and can be worn with any pair of shoes.

3. Stylish pair of pumps/heels:  Eventually you will have a “Girls Night Out” or need to wear them to the office.  Every mom should have a pair in her wardrobe.  When starting out, purchase them in basic colors and progress towards “fun” heels.

4. A blazer can do wonders:  Wearing a blazer instantly makes you look stylish but can also hide a few figure imperfections.  They can also go with anything (depending on the color and fabric texture) so this is a must have in your “mommy” wardrobe.

 

5. Proper undergarments:  Once you become a mom (no matter what size) you will have a case of the “jiggles.”  And that’s okay because as a grown woman, you want to have curves but undergarments assist with the shape/fit of your attire.  Stop by your favorite lingerie store and purchase a cami top, hosiery, and body shaper.

Mommy-ista Beauty Tips

1. Buy Concealer and Foundation: This particular beauty product is your best friend! You have long nights, and early mornings (very different from college.)  Therefore at some point, you will want to look awake and refreshed.  Concealer and Foundation can be purchased at Saks or at a local drugstore.  For more questions about concealer, download my e-book Beauty Tips Back to The Basics.

2. Neutral Lipstick and Red Lipstick:  Wearing a neutral lipstick will make your face appear upbeat and match any color blouse (or dress) in your wardrobe.  Wearing a red lipstick will brighten the eyes and refresh your face as well.

3. Groom those Eyebrows:  Your eyebrows are truly a window to the face!  They can be groomed at any local salon for $10.00 or a kit can be purchased from a local drugstore.

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4.  Fragrance, Fragrance, Fragrance:  Wearing a fragrance can boost any mood but most importantly, you will smell pleasant at all times (while running errands.)

 

5. Buy Quick Dry Nail Polish or Nail Stickers:  At some point, you will need to “appear” as if you’ve had a manicure.  Owning nail polish provides the luxury of making your hands look polished but also good for in-home touch ups.  Nail stickers are inexpensive and trendy.

Fall 2013 Fashion Designer Trends and Collections Part II

Below are photos that provide inspiration for Fall 2013, when we consider building our wardrobe.  Based upon my previous post, “Fall 2013 Beauty Trends and Accessories” I like to stay abreast of what’s current and new as it relates to fashion, beauty, and style.

My motivation behind this post series (or more so incorporating a trends element to this blog) steams from my family and friends asking what’s popular for the upcoming season.  The people in my life acknowledge that this is my passion and therefore come to me for wardrobe advice.

Therefore, this particular write – up centers around designer trends (for the fall) that have graced the runway last Spring.   I decided to compile a few looks and hopefully they will  help “spruce” up a few items you already own.  And don’t forget, it’s always great to find inspiration but learn to make every look your own!

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Marc Jacobs

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Celine

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Diane von Furstenberg
 

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Rebecca Minkoff
 

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Giueseppe Zanotti
 

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Alexander McQueen

Product Review: Virginn Pure Mineral Makeup

Last week I received a package in the mail from Tonja, the CEO of Virginn Pure Mineral Makeup.  Of course, I was super excited to test out the products because I love makeup. But most importantly, this line of cosmetics is considered to be a mineral product.

For those that are not savvy about the use of mineral based makeup, the Virginn Pure Mineral Makeup line’s considered to, “give skin a natural glow and feel as if you have nothing on.”  According to sources, mineral makeup is also helpful for women with sensitive skin and need assistance covering blemishes.

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Many people are not aware that I suffer from having eczema (all over.)  Having this skin care issue is my driving force behind developing a regiman and wearing the proper makeup for my skin type (to protect my skin from environmental debris.)  That purpose alone is a positive incentive for anyone to test out this brand.

Upon opening the package, I received several makeup brushes, shimmering bronzer, and foundation.  And  I have to agree that this product did indeed live up to it’s testimony! When applying the foundation and bronzer, I only needed to use a small amount of each product.  The makeup brushes felt wonderful and my face looked great throughout the remainder of the evening.

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To place an order with Virginn Pure Mineral Makeup, click on the link and see photos (of me) below!

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Product Alert: Introducing the Sultra Bombshell 1.5-Inch Rod Curling Iron

The NEW Bombshell 1.5-Inch Rod Curling Iron, with Dual-Heater Japanese Kyocera® Ceramic Heater Technology, emits Infrared Rays as you style making it perfect for color-treated, dry or damaged hair.

Create luxurious, romantic loose curls and waves in half the time of a traditional large barrel curling iron, without the clip lines.

DELICIOUS DETAILS • • • • • • • • Heater Technology mends and defends hair as you style with constant and even 360 °F heat, smoothing the cuticle and locking in your look. Perfect for color-treated, dry or damaged hair.

Easy to use—Wrap. Release. Repeat!

Curls in half the time of traditional “clip” curling irons with no clip lines. Even, full barrel heat from end to end and throughout the 1.5 inch rod barrel. Universal Voltage. Includes complimentary Bombshell Clipless Iron Sty*ling Glove. Plus The Sultra Standards!

The Sultra Bombshell 1.5-Inch Rod Curling Iron retails for $130 and is available at Sephora, Sephora.com, Nordstrom, Nordstrom.com and Sultra.com

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Target’s Beauty Concierge Progam Launches in Baltimore: Contributing Post by Lydia Rochelle

Just in case you needed another reason to shop at Target, the store known for the “Expect More. Pay Less” brand promise has launched a Beauty Concierge program in 27 existing stores in Washington DC, Northern Virginia and Baltimore.

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This program started in Chicago, and launched in the DMV on June 28, 2013. The Beauty Concierge is available at select times during the day, to answer all of your beauty and skincare needs with personalized and unbiased information.

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit with Melody, the Beauty Concierge at the store in Towson. Her impressive background as a professional make-up artist and extensive training in skin care and hair care, guided me through my beauty journey. During my visit, we perused the vast amount of ethnic hair care products (the largest selection that I have seen at Target) and developed a regimen that would work best for my hair type. Melody provided personalized and unbiased information and we also had a great time!

Additionally, the program will launch in 96 stores in Los Angeles/Orange County, 36 stores in Minneapolis and expand to 41 stores in Chicago, with approximately 200 stores implementing the program in 2013. Check with your local Target for additional locations with the Beauty Concierge. Happy shopping!

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Match Your Bodyshape to This Year’s Must Have Beachwear: Guest Post from Vivienne Ollis from Lilylola Beachwear Boutique

On any usual day it can be difficult knowing what suits your body shape but throw in a scorching hot summer and the possibility of a week spent around a pool or on the beach and the uncertainty can rapidly multiply.

Unless your blessed with the body of a supermodel you will be looking at your summer wardrobe, sarongs, bikinis, shorts and even sandals will be analyzed as you ponder if last year’s purchases were actually such a good buy?

So when it comes to shopping for your hard earned holiday and to avoid any mistakes again this year, here a few pointers on dressing different body shapes to ensure you make the most of your figure this summer.

Pear Shaped

If you have a pear shaped body you will be larger around the hips and thighs than you are on top, which can leave you feeling or looking out of balance. A general rule for those with this body shape and those who want to avoid appearing bottom heavy is to ensure that the fabric on your bottom half is understated compared to your top half e.g. the trick is to wear a brightly coloured or patterned top and team this with plain and simple bottoms. The two will contrast making the top half appear louder and bolder and the bottom appear slimmer and smaller. If you are a pear shape it’s worth remembering that when slipping on clothes to go walkabout try a sarong or a wrap as ‘shorts’ style bottoms will exaggerate the width of the hips.

Shorter Legs

Wanting to make your legs appear as long as possible is a great trick we all want to know. Try to avoid wearing shorts which are cut at mid thigh length or capri trousers cut at mid calf as these have a shortening effect on your legs. If you’re on the beach then wearing a high leg bikini will elongate your legs from hip to ankle adding virtual inches. For evenings out wear skirts or dresses which are ankle length, such as maxi dresses and long flowing garments. If these are paired with a waist length top you will exaggerate the length of yourself from waist to floor giving the impression your legs are much longer than they actually are.

Top Heavy

Almost polar opposite to the ‘pear’ shape having a top heavy figure will mean your hips and thighs look much smaller in comparison to your top. This doesn’t necessarily mean big cheated, you may simply have broad shoulders and larger arms making your overall appearance focused to your top half. In this case wearing a plain small top will help balance your figure but be sure this incorporates good support if you do also have larger breasts. Your bottoms can be bigger e.g. a larger knicker or shorts style and it’s safe to go for large bold prints. If you want to cover up then shorts or mini skirts are great as these will balance out your figure.

For more info and style advice on designer swimwear visit Lilylola Beachwear Boutique

Author Bio:  Vivienne Ollis Fashion Blogger specialising in Beachwear for Lilylola Beachwear Boutique

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Event Alert: Adornia {Fine Jewelry} Pop-Up Sail

Running the gammit from gourmet food to designer duds, pop-up sales trucks have been hitting the road hard for several years. This time around, ADORNIA will take the pop-up shop idea to the water for the first pop-up catamaran! ADORNIA will be hosting two “pop-up sails” this August on board their luxury catamaran SS ADORNIA docking at Montauk’s finest seaside spots, the Montauk Yacht Club and Navy Beach.  There will be two separate jewelry parties:

Saturday, August 3rd and Saturday, August 17th
Both Commencing
at 12:30 PM at the Montauk Yacht Club.
At 3:00 PM the SS ADORNIA will depart Montauk arriving at Navy Beach’s shores at 3:30 and will dock there till 6:00 PM. 

ADORNIA cofounders Becca Aronson and Moran Amir, aka Bex and Mo, will be on board to greet visitors to the pop-up sail and dole out the latest jewelry styling tips. They welcome Montauk’s weekenders to join them in viewing their latest summer vacation-inspired collection, The Palms. The SS ADORNIA will be the premiere Saturday party in August on Long Island’s shores. Nautical-clad models will don pieces from The Palms collection as champagne fills the flutes of visitors and music enlivens the spirit on the boat.

About ADORNIA 

ADORNIA is the modern girl’s jeweler—old world quality, luxury contemporary style. The online company fuses cutting edge design with real jewelry material and quality at an accessible luxury price point. Co-founded by Becca Aronson (Bex) former accessories editor for LUCKY Magazine and Moran Amir (Mo) formally of fashion houses Catherine Malandrino and Diesel. ADORNIA fills a void online for sophisticated women to shop for quality, unique fine jewelry. The premiere destination to shop for fashion fine jewelry, ADORNIA also provides jewelry guidance to its discerning female customers through its celebrated blog United States of ADORNIA and how-to styling video series Live from ADORNIA Studios! ADORNIA launched in November 2013 and has been featured in Forbes, Elle, Glamour, Lucky and Who What Wear, just to name a few. 

Event Recap: Mdurvwa Pop Up Shop hosted by Teena Leone

On Sunday, June 9, 2013 I had the opportunity to attend The Mdurvwa Pop Up Shop hosted by Teena Leone (from Fashion for Breakfast) along with jewelry designer Deborah Mdurvwa and R&B Singer, Lil Mo.  The event was held at a local boutique (in Federal Hill, Baltimore) titled The Lovelace Showroom.

I had a great time at this event for a variety of reasons.  Number one, I love supporting other bloggers because we truly have a passion for what we do and understand the dynamics and hard work that goes into maintaing a website.  Number two, it was my first time visiting The Lovelace Showroom and I adore the “vibe” that’s in this boutique.  From chandelier ceilings to sequin drapes, this is my type of boutique! Lastly, it’s always nice to meet other fashionistas living in the Baltimore area.

Everyone who attended the event also had the opportunity to enjoy cupcakes, light refreshments, and music played by a local DJ.

I give the event a thumbs up and looking forward to the next event hosted by Teena!

 

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Just another fun day for Style Life Fashion!
 

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