my new otk boots

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Thursday, February 25, 2010

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My new Dolce Vita "Gia" otk boots that I ordered from Urban Outfitters arrived today. I am pleased with my order contrary to others who have purchased these boots. There were complaints about how the shaft was loose fitting or slouchy amongst other things. These boots have no zipper, they slip on and I must admit that taking them off is slightly awkward. The boot has a small wedge, and it has a 15 inch long shaft. Obviously, if you want the tight fitting otk boots seen on celebrities such as Kate Moss, then these are not for you (the "Eve" boot from Dolce Vita is better fit for your needs). I happen to like these just the way they are and the gathering of the leather makes them unique.

Check out my chictopia, I made an entry about these boots. If you have a chictopia, leave a comment with your link if you'd like. :)

Olivia Palermo's Oxfords

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Thursday, February 25, 2010

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I have forever been obsessed with them. They are so versatile and beautiful... *Envy* But look at what I found on shopbop.com :D Oh temptation - I must resist you!

Although hers look more than these with laces included as seen on revolveclothing.com.

I feel like I'm the only person on the planet who doesn't own oxfords, but loves them. I'm really picky, I can't seem to find a pair that fits my tastes well enough.

handbags for Spring/Summer 2010

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Wednesday, February 24, 2010

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Harlequin pouch - a darling favorite. Simply adorable, wearable with vintage appeal all in one purse. This is definitely my favorite of all, maybe I should have saved it for last. Just take a look at what Topshop brings us this season in terms with this trend (photo below). You may also enjoy Banana Republic's "goa drawstring handbag".

Totes - in casual canvas. The tote has become a must on shopping days because it's better to use this instead of wasting another plastic bag, so think green. Opt for a printed version this season instead of a solid. (photo from Banana Republic)

Tinhan - the hobo bag upgrade. There is so much more appeal to this bag than the old hobo because it's big and structured, not just a blob. Big bags never looked so flattering while remaining so practical. (photo from Givenchy)

Pochette - formerly known as the fanny-pack. Sports themed anything was all the rage on the catwalks thanks to the Olympics, Marc Jacobs took the initiative of adding fanny-packs to the mix. This doesn't mean you're allowed to buy an ugly fanny-pack, there are so many other options out there.
Clutch - no sloppy clutches, ladies. Leave those over-sized floppy clutches at home for when they come back into fashion. The clutch of this season has a harder and durable exterior like those of Celine Shagreen. These will come in handy when you need nothing more than a couple of bills, your lip stick and i.d. (if you still need one) for a night out. (photo from FCUK)
Beaded - Yes, studs were in last season but this time around you'll want beaded bags, tops, jewelery - you name it. Get a bag with a variety of different colored beads or just one color to facilitate carrying it forward to Spring/Summer 2011. If you're lucky, you may still find these beaded clutches at a Club Monaco near you.
General Tip:

Prints - floral, graphic, optical, tribal and striped alike. I don't propose going out and dropping big bucks for leather printed bags (unless you love one bag in particular) because this trend may only be suitable for this Spring/Summer. However, prints give us an endless array of economical options, such as that of canvas, patent or fabric (such as tweed) bags instead of leather or suede.

Be aware that combining too many trends at once will result in utter failure haha. Take all other trends of this season into consideration when shopping for new handbags as you will want to choose what is most practical and appealing to you.

footwear for Spring/Summer 2010

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Wednesday, February 24, 2010

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Strappy sandals in any shape or form, totally in. Strappy heels, pumps, platforms, or wedges.. and that includes woven traps too. Not your regular gladiator sandal, we're totally passed that old fad. (Sam Edelman)













Bootie sandals; embellished pumps can make a regular fascinating addition to any outfit just as texture will add more interest to a boring T-shirt and shorts. Overall, bootie sandals have been embraced and have become a must have over the passed couple of seasons. Peep-toed booties are a MUST! (Sam Edelman & Jeffrey Campbell)






































Platformed heels: this is the best way to add height with the slightest hope to minimize your pain. (Jeffrey Campbell & Nine West)






























Wedges: These Dolce Vita strappy metallic wedges are simply a dream come true. I've always found that wedges were even easier to wear all night than platforms, plus they add amazing height. (others from Jeffrey Campbell)






























Clog inspired: I don't know if I'll be getting clogs any time soon. I'm very skeptical about this trend... but Zara has some really nice ones. (Jeffrey Campbell)














Prints!!! They are in with clothes and they are certainly in with shoes. However I wouldn't dish out a lot of cash for elaborately printed shoes that will only last one season. Here is a more affordable solution ... a pair of ballet flats from Urban Outfitters that will be great for next summer too. If you want to be risky, check out Tick booties by JC.



























These are not the only type of shoes that are in, thong sandals have evolved a lot over the years and they are definitely always in because they are a classic. Thongs can go anywhere from regular to bootie style. Many of the trends listed above will be mixed i.e. wedged sandals that are over the ankle and appear as though they are boots but with a peep toe etc...

I also recommend checking out : Rifinery29.com, there is an entry about footwear this season.

jade is the new black

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Sunday, February 21, 2010

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No it's not, at least not for me because black is my favorite shade but that's the name of the polish. I recently purchased this enchanting shade of cold mossy green from OPI's Hong Kong collection and I quite enjoy it. It was definitely love at first sight and I've never liked green nail polish on my nails before. I haven't fallen out of thinking blue is the better "new black" but I do agree that green is worthy of second place or third after gray nail polish.

nail polishes similar to this:
Ocean Love Potion - Sephora by OPI
Flyin High - China Glaze
Enchanted Forest Green - Orly

if green is not for you, try blue:
Russian Blue - OPI (dark)
No Limits - Nicole by OPI (dark)
Suzi Says Feng Shui - OPI
Dating a Royal - OPI
Shower Together - China Glaze
Secret Peri-Wink-Le - China Glaze (violet blue)

faking the OTK

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Saturday, February 20, 2010

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Suppose for whatever reason you're being outrageous and you don't want to wear your OTK boots or you don't/can't buy a pair... you like the look but you just can't wear it - whatever your excuse may be there's a simple solution for you. Wear any type of footwear that looks good with over-the-knee socks and you are done!!

Here are some pictures of how it's done:

There are countless ways to wear them and these socks are as essential as stockings in any wardrobe. They especially look great over stockings if you are concerned about showing too much skin while wearing them with a short pair of shorts. Socks come in a variety of colors, lengths, fabrics and textures that can compliment almost anyone's style. They also have versatility with how they can be worn from scrunched up at the knee to completely pulled up. Try wearing OTK socks with under the knee boots, if the socks are close in color with the boots it gives the illusion of wearing OTK boots from afar. When paired properly with heels as they are above or even with open toed shoes for those who are more forward they portray an edgy and more put together look. Aggy likes them!!

hair treatments currently used

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Friday, February 19, 2010

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L'Oreal Vive Pro Conditioning Treatment

This is an inexpensive conditioning that actually works. It relaxes the frizz in your hair which makes it perfect to use before straightening your hair. It smells great and helps add softness and shine to my hair. This is a great alternative to Joico's K-Pak which I also use religiously & smells 10 times better, if that's even possible.





Rene Furterer Karite


Pricey, but this wash out conditioner smells botanically amazing. Karite works wonders with dry hair and scalp. It's more of a deep conditioning to help keep hair from tangling. A big plus is that the formula has no sulfates, triclosan, phthalates or petro-chemicals.






Biosilk Silk Therapy



This is a leave in conditioner and reconstructing treatment. It helps eliminate frizz and creating shine by filling out voids in hair cuticles that was caused by damage. It protects my hair from heat, cold and pollution at the same time as making my hair appear healthier.






Chi Straight Guard


Straight guard is ideal for hair straightening. It helps create smoothness and shine while eliminating frizz. I wouldn't straighten my hair without using this. Another plus is that it doesn't way the hair down when you use it.

the 411 on how to wear OTK boots

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Thursday, February 18, 2010

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OTK boots were all over the runway in 2009 but sometimes new trends take some getting use to. You can still carry this trend forward into Spring 2010 (and let's hope Winter 2010 too). The dramatic silhouettes created by OTK boots will elongate your legs if you wear them right. Choose the way of wearing OTK boots that benefits you the most according to your style, comfort zone, silhouette and budget. (Chinese Laundry seen on Gossip Girl's S)


Ways to wear them

- try wearing with a structured coat

- try wearing with a pair of shorts or a skirt & tights

- try wearing with shorter pieces such as skirts, tunics or dresses

- try with any skinny bottoms; pants, jeans, leggings (photo of Jamie Gunns)

Somethings to Remember:

OTK boots will be the STATEMENT piece of your outfit so if you don't like your legs or if you don't want to turn heads then don't buy a pair.

Keep it OTK not thigh high, Ok! There is a difference between over the knee and thigh high, one makes you hot and the other... makes you trashy. Thigh high is ok for Haut Couture and the covers of magazines but is not practical in daily life unless you're a night walker.

OTK boots look best when worn with opaque stockings to avoid coming off trashy. Ribbed stockings (where the lines run vertically up your leg) will give the illusion of longer and slimmer legs.

This is an investment piece. Choose leather over synthetic unless you are against wearing leather, only intend on wearing the OTK boots for one season, or really don't have the means to pay for leather. Synthetic doesn't breath, last or fit right in most occasions - and frankly - fit is ever more important with this type of footwear than any other. Suede will be more affordable than leather and will soften the look of your outfit. Black leather is a classic rocker look for those who can manage. My tip for saving cash is to shop around for the best price AND shop at the end of the season... you'll get the best deals after Christmas for any article of clothing, guaranteed.

Suppose you only have enough money to buy one pair and you cannot decide whether you want flats, mid heels, high heels, platforms, slim fit or wide fit. Only you can decide, there is no right or wrong choice. Try on every type of style of OTK boot that appeals to you. Make sure that you are buying a pair that fits your priorities; if you need a pair to go out then reach for mid-heeled or high-heeled, or opt for flats if you will get more use of them in the daytime supposing you don't club much or you already have great booties for evening wear.

Hope this helps. Happy shopping & outfit planning. :)

oscar de la renta in asphalt

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Thursday, February 18, 2010

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When you can't decide what color would look best with your outfit, pull an Oscar. Grey is very easy to wear, so why not where it on your nails too? And with nail polishes like CND asphalt, the possibilities are endless. I'm sure most of you are familiar with OPI's "You Don't Know Jacques" (I own and adore it) which is especially great if you prefer a warmer grey to stone cold asphalt. Grey has many variants for example: a more purple grey would be "Metro Chic" from Sephora's OPI collection. Don't just settle for matte gray either, there are plenty of shimmers, taupes or colors with tints of grey.

Here is a list of other polishes you may want to consider:
"Particuliere" by Chanel
"Give me the moon" by OPI
"Sheer your toys" by OPI
"Over the taupe" by OPI
"Chinchilly" by Essie
"On the Prowl" by MAC
"Recycle" by China Glaze

Sonya Rykiel for h&m

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Thursday, February 18, 2010

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Rykiel's second collection for H&M goes on sale Saturday. The collection includes the label's signature striped knitwear in brights - hot pink, mauve and marigold variations, or classic black and white. The line includes little girls' clothing as well. There will be a signed bags for sale which will donate proceeds going to UNICEF. The collection also includes bangles, brooches, bracelets and Parisian berets - no duh!! Prices range from $6.95 to $79.95CND.

Personally, I don't find any of the logo sweaters or striped sweater appealing in the least bit. There is something about the gimmick that doesn't do it for me. However the collection does have some high notes that may be worth while looking forward to. For instance this super cute jumpsuit with a genie look that is sort of like an overall, you can put any top you want underneath. My question is; is it worth $79? Somehow, given H&M's record of garment quality - especially with collaborations, my guess is no... :


Video about Sonia Rykiel for H&M on Youtube

braid it

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Thursday, February 18, 2010

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Loose braids whether they be french or not are a great alternative hair style this season and any other season as a mater of fact. It's easier than a perfect tight french braid and has a more "effortless chic" feel to it. You can rock a loose braid in almost any occasion and make it evening appropriate with minimal efforts, just add the right accessories. This do works especially well with vintage clothing too.

trends for spring/summer 2010

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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According to Style.com forecasts the trends of the season can be categorized in the following "Clean Energy," "Game Theory," "Marching Orders," "Pastoral Interlude," "Pattern Play," "The Big Reveal." Fashion forecast definitely should not be followed to the T. No one should comprise their own style in order to follow a trend. However, using the forecasts as a guide and intertwining your tastes with current trends is what will set you apart from everyone else.

Clean Energy - It's kind of like the simplistic 90s fashion minus the overwhelming mannish shapes. Although, If you compare this decade to the 90s there is a recession in common. This trend consists of a lot of white and neutrals such as beige, off white and taupe. A pale pastel can qualify as well. It's that simple dress with feminine tailoring that is not over the top with detail. Imagine an outfit where you tone down everything to have one statement piece/accessory take center stage. White and neutrals have been seen all over the red carpets of 2010 already.


Game Theory - This trend prevailed in Alexander Wang's collection this season. H&M has embrace this trend already. Wear your sweats with elastic bottoms with a pair of rugged peep-toed boot heels, a bomber windbreaker and a graphic T or tank top. A sport's blazer (which isn't for sports at all) match with an oversized tank and skinny jeans also does the trick. It's an athletic trend that designers have played up this season but has already been seen on urban fashionites for at least the passed year. (photos from H&M)

Marching Orders - Check out everything in the new Mango collection (runway video on youtube) and that's basically it. Balmain has a great take on this trend as well. To follow the trend in a more original way than using it as street wear, style.com suggests for us to look for the "more dressed-up takes on uniform dressing." Picture a night out: a great uniform military cut jacket over a rocking sequenced mini dress would really make a statement. (photo: Constance Jablonski)

Pastoral Interlude - The name says it all, pastoral, cows grazing in the pastures .. um think little house on the prairie. It's the type of getup you would put together to wear at a cheesy picnic on a summer's day. A lot of different clothing could fall into this category; pinafore dresses, gingham printed clothing, and small floral prints. Take a trip to forever21 and you're practically guaranteed to find something that fall under this trend.


Pattern Play - Include patterns in your wardrobe this spring and do not be afraid to mix them, it's all the rage! If you don't like the idea of mixing patterns, you may want to opt for a dress or a playsuit (or romper) with a continuous pattern. Prints can mean anything from pretty florals to tribal motifs and much more. The best part about this trend is that it is usually re-occurring which means chances are you already have something with a print in your closet that can be re-worn this season. That's all there is to it. (photo from forever21)

The Big Reveal - There are plenty or pieces in stores that are lingerie inspired this season. I bet you don't want to walk out in body suits like Lady GaGa or Rihanna, but you would sure like to make heads turn with your outfit regardless. So the easiest ways to follow this trend without looking like an attention whore is to use it as sparingly as possible. For nighttime, adopt the trend by wearing a clear silk blouse over your bra. During the day you can wear lacy camisole's that are originally meant to be wore as sleepwear. Be risky, try a bustier as a top paired with skinny jeans and killer heals. Lingerie for the day never looked better. (photo from Zara)

sexy loose curls

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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The video for this tutorial:



this is from my old youtube channel... my new one is here

Preperation:
- L'oreal vive pro shampoo and conditioner - L'oreal vive pro conditioning treatment or Rene Furterer karite - Herbal Essences leave-in split end protection for long hair

Styling:
- Sunsilk waves of envy to achieve waves and some body
- Herbal Essences hairspray fixatif to preserve curls

Utensils:
- Conair Infinity 1 1/2 inch curling iron
- Hair clips

Instructions: - wash hair with shampoo and conditioner - use a leave in conditioning treatement (follow instructions according to product packaging)
- apply split end protection to the tips of hair
- spray wave enhancing product into hair evenly (do not use close to roots) and scrunch hair in sections, (always read instructions) or skip this step all together
- let hair air dry or use a hair dryer with a defuser on a low head setting while scrunching hair in sections. Let your hair rest before moving on to the next step if you choose to blow dry.

shampoo damage

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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Do you ever read the ingredients on your shampoo bottle? You should because there are a few that you should watch out for to protect your beloved locks. Regardless of whether you use salon brands, drugstore brands, or "natural" brands - most shampoos are made with a slightly different variation of the same handful of ingredients.

Check your shampoos for:

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
Ammonium Xylene Sulfonate
TEA Lauryl Sulfate
Sulfur (in dandruff shampoos)
Selenium Sulfide (in dandruff shampoos)
Magnesium Sulfate
Sodium Thiosulfate
Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
Alkyl Sodium Sulfate
Alkyl Benzene Sulfonate
TEA-Dodecylbenzene
Sodium C12-15 Alkyl Sulfate Sodium Dodecyl Sulfonate
All of these agents are unnecessarily harsh on your hair and scalp.
My personal preference for now:

perfumes i can't wait to buy

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Posted by Stealing Beauty | Posted on Wednesday, February 17, 2010

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Perfume Collection Video:



Wishlist**


Vera Wang Look mandarin, watery greens, litchi and golden deliches apple, lily, freesia, jasmine, sweet vanilla, musk, oak moss and patchouli

















Lola by Marc Jacobs Fruity Floral; Pink peppercorn, pear, red grapefruit, fuchsia, rose, vanilla and musk. I actually got this for Christmas from my mom and I love the smell.
















Very Hollywood by Michael Kors (commercial on youtube) Fruity floral; Mandarin, bergamot, wet jasmine, ylang ylang, raspberry, gardenia, amber and white moss, sexy, glamorous, romantic

















Ricci Ricci by Nina Ricci (commercial on youtube) Fresh floral; Bergamot, rhubarb zest, rose, tuberose and patchouli, daytime fragrance















The Beat by Burberry (commercial on youtube) notes of tea from Ceylon, iris, bluebell, bergamot, cardamom, pink pepper, mandarin, light musk, vetiver and cedar.

























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