Modern Woman Personal Image and Fashion

Foundation Perfection

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:09:00 +0000

Foundation Perfection

Are you wearing the right colour of foundation for your skin? Find out what right and wrong foundation colours look like and what products I recommend to get started.

Warmest wishes,

Christie Ressel

International Image Consultant and Style Coach
Personal Power Image Consulting

Know Your Colours

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:22:00 +0000

Know Your Colours

How many times have you gotten home after an afternoon of shopping and realize that what you just bought does nothing for your personal image and are unflattering because the colour doesn't work for you? Trying to follow the seasons' latest trends doesn't mean it is going to work for you or your complexion. Knowing what works for you will ultimately save you a lot of money in the long-run.

Find your best clothing, makeup and hair colours! Christie Ressel, style coach for personal power image consulting shows how colours affect our style and skin. Knowing the right colours for you will give you an instant "it" factor and also a glamorous glow!

Christie Ressel, International Image Consultant and Style Coach

Personal Power Image Consulting

The Obsession For Perfection

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 01:10:00 +0000

The Obsession For Perfection

Some women feel that something on their bodies just doesn't seem perfect and they decide to do something about it. Some women find a lot of things, like Actress Heidi Montag, and go crazy and do 10 procedures all in one shot.

Crazy? I would say so.

I don't think she is crazy because she is human and didn't like something about her appearance. Crazy is when someone decides to put their health and life on the line by not doing something about it with some sort of common sense.

Anytime you go into surgery that last longer than 4 hours, you increase the risks that already are there to begin with. One wanting procedures to drastically change their appearance should always do it only after exhausting any other options under their control.

That being said, if someone wants to go under the knife or have non-surgical procedures, I am open to it and don’t find it wrong. But with anything, moderation is the key. Many women find more things wrong after they have gone for a procedure and once they have successfully changed what has been bother them, they other flaws will show their ugly selves like a big neon sign flashing “fix me”.

Saying that, here is Heidi’s very publicly debated before and after photos of her 10 procedures she recently did.

(click here to enlarge photo)

My Thoughts: I have no problem with plastic surgery or any cosmetic procedures as long as it’s done with some common sense and you are doing it for yourself and not because someone else wants you to get it done.

About Heidi and her latest procedures? She is someone who has publicly acknowledged that she is a headliner hound so it doesn’t surprise me that she would publically tell the world how she got so much done. She loves the attention. Heidi and her husband, Spencer Pratt, just recently wrote a book called "How to Be Famous: Our Guide to Looking the Part, Playing the Press, and Becoming a Tabloid Fixture" so this may actually be in their play-by-play manual to get famous. I haven’t read the book so I can’t be quoted. This does seem to fit the brand they are promoting.

Her Before and After Photo? She aged herself, period. She no longer looks 23 but more in her late 20s. Breasts are huge and really a turn-off in my opinion because she just went a bit too big. I think they are perfect for someone who wants to grab attention. Can’t see the difference in her nose but think the ears probably look a bit better. Don’t know what a partial brow lift does so I don’t know what to look for and Botox would be more noticeable if she was trying to make a funny face…or is she actually trying but I can’t notice. Her fat injections show a huge change, which makes her look older. Chin is very noticeable as well, again aging her appearance. Noticeable signs of the liposuction and look good. Heidi is an example of someone who I would think would qualify for this procedure because she is doing it to shape her figure and not to lose weight by not trying to naturally lose it by exercise and diet. As for her buttock augmentation, I don’t see her ass from the front so I have no comment.

Overall? I haven't really decided yet. But if you put your fingers over her new boobs on the right, she's starting to look like Paris Hilton (face wise) but the boobs distract from her face. Maybe that's a good thing!

I don't think she's ugly now or was before getting the work done. If she's happier for doing it then that's what matters. I'd rather focus my time on more important things.

What are you thought’s about plastic surgery, about Heidi’s decision to get 10 done in one day and how you think she looks now compared to her before photo?

Fabulous Fashion Find: Foley + Corinna Zebra Cardigan

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sat, 16 Jan 2010 14:00:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Foley + Corinna Zebra Cardigan

Aspiring playwright Dana Foley was selling her own, original designs at a flea market when she met Anna Corinna, who was selling vintage clothes. The two became friends, and because of their complementary aesthetic, shortly after launched Foley + Corinna. Their ability to combine the vintage with the modern has translated into signature City bags and luxuriously draped dresses and tops. Foley + Corinna clothing and bags can be worn effortlessly from day to night, from downtown to the red carpet.

This cardigan is very versitile and is a very hot item for the Spring 2010 season.

Details
This zebra-striped wool cardigan sweater features a V neck and 4-button closure. Ribbed edges. Long sleeves.

Size, Fit & Color
♦ 18" long, measured from shoulder.
♦ Fabrication: Fine knit.
♦ 100% merino wool.
♦ Dry clean.
♦ Imported.

Price
$247US shopbop.com

Click here for purchasing details

Complete The Look

Pencey Bandage Dress

Pelle Moda Shantel Open Toe Platform Booties

CHRISHABANA Nut, Ring & Cross Necklace

Cleobella Nevaeh Drawstring Bag

Designer Spotlight: Alice + Olivia

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:30:00 +0000

Designer Spotlight: Alice + Olivia

Alice + Olivia was founded by former Penn classmates Stacey Bendet and Rebecca Matchett in 2002. (The line is named after the first names of the pair’s mothers.) The socially well-connected duo showed Bendet’s first designs to a crowd of fashion-industry insiders and celebrities at the Russian Tea Room that year, a “just pants” collection introducing the label’s signature low-rise, slim-fitting “Staceypants” in bright colors and funky patterns. Bendet split from Matchett and picked up Theory founder Andrew Rosen as chief financial partner in 2003. The label, which now encompasses RTW, childrenswear, and yogawear, is currently sold in more than 800 stores worldwide, as well as stand-alone boutiques in New York, Southampton, Los Angeles, Malibu, and Los Vegas.

Stacey is from Chappaqua and is a former website developer. She went to University of Pennsylvania. She didn't study fashion, but loved to shop.

So for all those who always wanted to get into the designing world but don't have any university background, you have hope!

Current Collection

Alice + Olivia
Stretch tank bodysuit
$95US

Alice + Olivia
Cascade wool-blend blazer
$525US

Alice + Olivia
Cutout mini dress
$420US

Alice + Olivia
Ruched mini dress
$420US

Alice + Olivia
Studded skinny jeans
$350US

Alice + Olivia
Parker jersey tank dress
$230US

Alice + Olivia
Sahara striped jersey dress
$420US

Alice + Olivia
Silk-blend twisted halter dress
$385US

Alice + Olivia
Embellished asymmetric top
$275US

Alice + Olivia
Dylan draped silk dress
$390US

Alice + Olivia
Cocoon paneled silk blazer
$525US

Alice + Olivia
Bustier satin dress
$525US

More Items Available for Alice + Olivia
Alice + Olivia Worn By Celebrities

Michelle Trachtenberg

Fabulous Fashion Find: Giuseppe Zanotti Patent-leather Cutout Sandals

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:00:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Giuseppe Zanotti Patent-leather Cutout Sandals

These shoes just call out to me. Bring back the last 80s bright colors, these shoes bring with it the updated look that will make those feet get some needed attention. These look like they can be matched up with many different outfits and get dramatic looks.

Details
Fuchsia patent-leather sandals with a heel that measures approximately 125mm / 5 inches with a 15mm / 0.5 inch floating platform. Giuseppe Zanotti sandals have an open toe, cutout detailing on the foot, a T-bar and a silver-tone side buckle fastening.

Size, Fit & Color
♦ Italian sizing.
♦ This style runs true to size.

Price
$650US Net-A-Porter.com

Click here for purchasing details

Fabulous Fashion Find: Bebe Rosette Wristlet

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 17:08:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Bebe Rosette Wristlet

This is this upcoming season’s hot item...anything Rosette! From purses to blouses, you will see it everywhere.

Details
A round little rose will have your style looking sweet, everyday. Rosette wristlet bag is decorated with a collage of geo petals along the side. Smooth metallic grommets dot each panel, adding edgy texture. Removable chain linked and fabric straps allow you to slip over your wrist, or grab by the hand. Removable bebe logo charm. Zip closed opening. Jacquard fabric interior; media pouches and zip pocket.

Size, Fit & Color
♦ Diameter: 7". Wristlet length: 10".
♦ Polyurethane.
♦ Spot clean.
♦ Imported.

Comes in Black, Metallic and Pink

Price
$79 BeBe.com

Click here for purchasing details

What do you think of this years trend?

Fabulous Fashion Find: Giuseppe Zanotti Mirror-Embellished Suede Sandals

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 19:02:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Giuseppe Zanotti Mirror-Embellished Suede Sandals

These shoes just scream to me Lady GaGa. That woman is just amazing and I can't wait to see what she brings in 2010 but in the mean time, these shoes look just as adventurous and stunning as one of her videos. He probably got the inspiration from the Disco Queen. Whatcha think?

Details
Black suede sandals with a heel that measures approximately 110mm / 4.5 inches. Giuseppe Zanotti sandals have mirror mosaic embellishment, cross-over straps, an almond toe, leather soles, patent leather trim and a silver-tone zip fastening at the back of the heel.

Size & Fit
♦ Italian sizing.
♦ This style runs true to size.

Price
$795US Net-A-Porter.com

Click here for purchasing details

Fabulous Fashion Find: Karl Donoghue Merinillo Lamskin Coat

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Karl Donoghue Merinillo Lamskin Coat

EXCLUSIVE TO NET-A-PORTER.COM. Wrap yourself in Karl Donoghue's sumptuous belted black lambskin shearling lined coat this winter. Wear this investment piece with a fine-knit sweater dress and knee-high boots for luxurious cold-weather style. Shown here with a 3.1 Phillip Lim dress, Vanessa Bruno boots and a Jil Sander bag.

Details

Size & Fit
♦ Runs true to size
♦ Size XXSmall = UK 6, Size XSmall = UK 8, Small = UK 10, Medium = UK 12
♦ Model's height is 177cm / 5'10" and wears a size XSmall

Price
$2,335US Net-a-porter.com

Click here for purchase details

Fabulous Fashion Find: Theory Jumpsuit

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Theory Jumpsuit

Tailor an elegant day-to-evening look with Theory's black wool-blend strapless jumpsuit. Team it with a tuxedo and heels for impeccable city style.

Details
Black wool-blend strapless jumpsuit with tapered pants. Theory jumpsuit has a paneled top with concealed zip and snap fastening at side, darts and a fold-over panel through front, faux fly at the front, waistband with belt loops, pockets at sides, faux slit pocket at back and is partially lined. 93% wool, 5% polyamide, 2% elastane; lining: 94% polyester, 6% spandex. Dry clean.

Size & Fit
♦ US sizing
♦ Runs true to size
♦ Wear with a strapless bra
♦ Model's height is 177cm / 5'10" and wears a US size 4

Price
$355US Net-a-porter.com

Click here for purchasing details

Fabulous Fashion Find: Issa Printed Silk-Jersey Dress

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Issa Printed Silk-Jersey Dress

This is one beautiful dress for a date with a wonderful guy or a night out with the girls. The butterflies add an element of simple felinity without it looking too girly. Yellow is a hot color this season, Indulge!

Details
Black silk-jersey dress with a yellow butterfly print. Issa dress has a V-neck, three-quarter length dolman sleeves with banded cuffs, a self-tie belt at waist, two front pockets, gathering at waist and a concealed zip fastening at the side. 100% silk. Dry clean.

Size & Fit
♦ UK sizing
♦ Runs true to size
♦ Flatters all figures
♦ Model's height is 177cm / 5'10" and wears a UK size 8

Price
$535US Net-a-porter.com

Click here for purchasing details

Fabulous Fashion Find: Jimmy Choo Candy Shoulder Clutch

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Jimmy Choo Candy Shoulder Clutch

If you love a statement assessory then this Jimmy Choo Neon Clutch is definately a great choice. Either one of these will bring any black outfit out of the dark ages.

Details
Yellow or Pink acrylic hard shoulder clutch with ridged detail. Jimmy Choo clutch has a long silver-tone chain handle that can be hidden inside bag, designer-embossed logo at front, a shaped magnetic-fastening fold-over flap at front, an internal pouch pocket with designer-stamped plaque and is lined in tonal leather and gold satin.

Size & Fit
Width 7" / 17cm
Height 6" / 14cm
Depth 2" / 5cm
Handle Drop 21" / 54cm

Price
$495US net-a-porter.com

Click here for purchase details for the pink neon and for the yellow neon clutch

Fabulous Fashion Find: Giuseppe Zanotti Snakeskin Pumps

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Giuseppe Zanotti Snakeskin Pumps

These snakeskin pumps are a must have this season. The beautiful detail of the mixture of snakeskin and patent leather patchwork makes for lots of great girl-bonding chit chat. A very hot item for a great night-out-on-the-town.

Details
Patent black leather and snakeskin patchwork peep-toe pumps with a heel that measures approximately 125mm / 5 inches with a 30mm / 1 inch double platform. Giuseppe Zanotti pumps have a patent nude heel, a receded platform and simply slip on.

Size & Fit
♦ Italian sizing
♦ Runs small to size, take the next half size up

Price
$695US Net-a-porter.com

Click here for purchasing details

Fabulous Fashion Find: Christian Louboutin Ulona 140 Platform Sandals

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Fabulous Fashion Find: Christian Louboutin Ulona 140 Platform Sandals

I love a pair of shoes that look just plain fun. When I came across this pair of delightful foot candy, I had to share it with all of you.

Details
Multicolored suede and leather patterned sandals with a heel that measures approximately 140mm / 5.5 inches with a 30mm / 1 inch platform. Christian Louboutin sandals have metallic gold multi-straps, a zip fastening at the back heel, a peep-toe and signature red leather soles. Christian Louboutin's multicolored suede and leather patterned platform sandals with gold multi-straps are the perfect pop of color for your favorite LBD.

Size & Fit
♦ Italian sizing
♦ Runs small to size, take the next full size up

Price
$1,695 Net-a-Porter.com

Click here for full purchasing details

Fall Haircut Trends For All Lengths

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

Fall Haircut Trends For All Lengths

This season you need to ask yourself, "Am I going to look good with that haircut?" Check out his tips for what's sexy now, without sacrificing the most flattering cut for your face shape, personality, and lifestyle. Here is Hairstylist Moulay Yacoubi of the Pierre Michel Salon in NYC take of what's happening this Fall.

What's Hot Now — (Hint: It's Not Dallas)
"Inspiration is coming from the '80s," says Yacoubi. "We saw that from a lot of the big designers," he adds. But don't fret. It doesn't mean we're going back to the era of larger-than-life Dallas-style hair, which he despises, it means we'll be seeing a little extra spice when it comes to cuts. "It’s just a little flair of those hairstyles that we had in the past — in the '80s — but with more finish, a more modern look, and more sexiness."

Think Victoria Beckham. . .
"The short cuts are very happening, like a bobbish look," he says.

A Shorter Take
Or, you could also opt for the pixie version Victoria wore earlier this year, which had a nice funky edge — a look Yacoubi admires.

You Can't Go Wrong With Rihanna
For a punky element, Yacoubi suggests Rihanna's asymmetrical style.

For a Variation of the Look
Lift it up with some volume in the back and a slight wave in the front.

Short and Sassy
If you've got a smaller head, "go for short, and spiky like the old Sharon Stone look," he said.

Afraid of the short?
If you don't want to make the commitment to shorn locks just yet, "I would definitely suggest that you start with a wig for short hair," Yacoubi says. Here are some options: Notice 2 Human Hair Wig ($52 US); Isabella Wig ($55 US); or Sage Wig ($59 US).

For Medium-Length Hair
"The Kate Moss look is very happening," he says. "I love that longish bob look — kind of shoulder-length. It's between short and shoulder length. It gives the hair a lot of movement."

For Long Hair
"For someone with long hair, keep it more natural," Yacoubi explains. "For example, you can have long hair with a lot of layers, but softer — not too poufy, and not a lot of volume."

In Case You Wondered. . .
Bangs are still happening.

Yacoubi's Favorite
"My favorite haircut now is the Madonna look," says Yacoubi. "It’s shoulder length, but she has the bangs swept to the side. It’s very modern."

Don't Go Overboard
"I like sexy. I like natural. I don't like a lot of product," he advises. "You want the hair to have some finish, of course. I just don't want it to be overdone," he added. The bottom line? Don't try too hard.

Modern Woman Recommends
I am in no way a fan of much from the 80's but I do have my thoughts about the trends for this Fall season. If you are wanting to go with something that is 'In' that it's always good to consult a very experienced hair stylist to see what will work for your needs, your face and your lifestyle. I have worn wigs and extentions in the past and recommend them to anyone who is not willing to part with their own hair or want to switch it up once in awhile. I am loving Rihanna's dos but I personally probably wouldn't be able to rock the look. Victoria is always looking sharp and that's because the woman knows what works for 'HER'. It is only hair but since hair is one of the most important features we have, always get what will work for 'YOU'.

I know I am really feeling the Ali Wig ($34 US) if I was going to rock the really short look. Tell us what you think!

Beyonce Is Woman Of The Year

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 23:07:00 +0000

Beyonce Is Woman Of The Year

Accepting this years "Woman of the Year" award from Billboard Magazine, Beyonce looked hot in this baby blue number. What do you think?

She has definately worked hard this past year and it shows. With a steller music career, recognized actress, and being a happily married wife to JayZ, Beyonce is on top of her game. She sure knows how to have her clothes work for her.

Thanks I Love Godiva for the inspired post.

How To Transition Your Fall Wardrobe Into Spring

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:20:00 +0000

How To Transition Your Fall Wardrobe Into Spring

Even though the warmer temperature and extended hours of daylight make you want to express your good mood through bright hues, you need to take some strategic steps in order for the transition between fall and spring to be smooth and subtle.

Small steps with colour
Spring is NOT summer, and the brighter colours of mid summer like bright blues, yellows, greens and even pinks should be worn with intelligence - acting only as an accent colour (one coloured item per outfit) until the weather starts to really warm up. Stick to darker earth tone colours and neutral tones for the most part, adding hits of colour that gradually increase as the temperature and leave the pastels and bright bold colours until at least late May.

Heavyweight Fighter
Any item of clothing that reeks of winter needs to be retired till next fall. Anything in your wardrobe meant to keep you warm should be out of sight. Examples of this would be anything puffy, wooly, fur of any kind, flannel, fleece and turtlenecks. Also, store your winter accessories and trade in your winter scarves for lighter scarves whose intentions are more geared towards being fashion forward than keeping toasty warm.

Layers of Style
Layering is not only a fashion statement, but also one of those fashion trends that evolved out of pure practicality. The art of layering is a technical one, and helps one plan ahead and stay comfortable and cool during unforeseen weather and severe temperature changes.

The secret to practical and fashionable layering is to stick to LIGHT layers. Spring usually means brisk mornings and beautiful afternoons. Throw a light scarf around your neck, and never forget your sunglasses. This look allows for layers to be shed as the temperature rises and reapplied as the sun goes down, making you prepared for no matter what the day might hold.

Coat of Arms
With parkas in storage, there is a multitude of options for a spring substitute. Denim, corduroy, leather, trench coats, suede and sports jackets are all stylish options. For spring, a new twist on the classic black leather jacket could be trying a BROWN leather jacket. Brown has been a big colour as of late, and meshes well with the lighter hues of a spring wardrobe.

Also, please gentlemen, keep those sandals, shorts, and tank tops hidden till summer fully hits. Think long sleeves, pants, shoes and light jackets. No one wants to jump the gun and be the only one having premeditated fun in the sun.

How To Coordinate "His and Hers" Outfits

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 08:49:00 +0000

How To Coordinate "His and Hers" Outfits

Being a couple is more than just sharing a tube of toothpaste and finishing each other’s sentences, it’s about coordinating your lives to complement each other as best as possible. So why shouldn’t this philosophy extend to your wardrobe choices? Here are some quick and easy points to get your outfits in sync without being too matchy-matchy.

Seduce them slowly
If you are the one who tends to be dressed for success and they live in their jeans, don’t expect a change overnight. Take it slow, offering helpful suggestions one piece at a time to ease them into a more polished look. Don’t be too pushy about your partner’s fashion upgrade and try to make it fun for both of you.

Take it to the next level
Coax your partner into upgrades that are easy to incorporate into their wardrobe. For example, if they love denim, head them towards tailored and modern jean fits in clean washes and eventually into flat-front dress pants. Or, if they love their cotton T-shirts and sweaters, upgrade them to the same styles in luxurious fabrics like pima cotton and cashmere. Make the transition easy and painless.

Colour each other’s world
Couples can always appear “pulled together” by simply following some simple colour rules. Think of classic colour combinations (i.e. black and camel, red and navy) and work within those parameters. If you are in a camel outfit, your partner will look sharp and sophisticated in a crisp black ensemble. Or, go for a pairing that involves the overall colour “mood”. Like a great advertising spread in a magazine, dress in the same general colours (i.e. blues) and fabrics (i.e. tweeds) and you’ll complement each other without matching exactly. It will look harmonious yet not forced.

How Hair Plays a 'Part' In Your Career

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 23:54:00 +0000

How Hair Plays a 'Part' In Your Career

Although polite society says that looks aren't everything, you have to concede that they mean something. Your first impression of many people is based on appearance. Their clothes, posture, height and even their hair.

Siblings and sociologists John and Catherine Walter have researched how a person's image is affected by his or her hair part. Whether you part your hair on the left or right side of your head -- or not at all -- influences how others perceive you and possibly even how you perceive yourself. The idea behind their theory is that your hair part alters how others interact with you, thus altering how you interact with them, and so on.

You know a bad hairstyle can haunt you for years to come (as anyone alive in the 1980s will attest), but you probably didn't expect it to have a lasting impact on your career.

This is the hair-part breakdown, according to the Walters:

Men who part their hair on the left are often popular and successful. People perceive them as strong.

Women who part their hair on the left are considered reliable and intelligent. It's a smart move for those who work in politics or business.

Men who part their hair on the right are seen as radical and open. These men should be strong enough to overcome the stigma against men with this part.

Women who part their hair on the right are viewed as gentle and feminine. Because it is a more traditional style, it can affect how seriously they are taken.

People who don't part their hair, can't part their hair due to baldness or use a center part come across as trustworthy and wise.

With that in mind, here are some examples of famous faces and characters with a variety of hair parts. Let's see if the theory holds up to their job roles.

How To Wear Black Pants

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:51:00 +0000

How To Wear Black Pants

One thing that you’re always in search of is the perfect pair of black pants. Black pants are a staple in your office wardrobe in any season.

FOR HER
First, look for a flare leg pant, which we saw a resurgence of in fall. Choose a wide band at the top of this pant which is perfect for flattening out any sort of tummy. Another key trend as we begin to transition into fall is leopard. So spice things up with a patent leather belt worn over a sizzling leopard blouse and a nice, neat jacket (which can be removed for your after-work festivities). Polish off this look with a rhinestone watch and some peep toe satin heels.

Another dress pant to look for is one that has a clean front straight leg. This style of pant is very versatile for both casual and career wear. A cobalt blue sleeveless blouse is a great way to add some colour to your office wardrobe. Accessorize with a pair of neutral coloured earrings, watch, and a ring to keep the top’s bright colour as your statement piece.

FOR HIM
Guys, you have it easy. Black dress pants are basic wardrobe staples. For the office, imagine effortless Parisian style. Black, grey and white are key base colours that punch brilliantly with shades of blue topaz and grape for a clean, graphic impact.

Layering is important, but it should still look light and easy. Think blazer, over a cotton striped sweater, over a dress shirt with a pair of tailored black dress pants.

Another great look is wearing coordinating suiting pieces as separates and mixing them together. Try a grey blazer with a black slim pant.

How To Dress Like a VIP

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 08:47:00 +0000

How To Dress Like a VIP

Ever wondered how that well-dressed coupled snagged the best table in the restaurant while you end up sitting by the kitchen? Next time pay close attention to what they are wearing and chances are, they’ve used the all mighty power of the “power suit” to secure their seats.

What is it about a suit that signals VIP? It’s the cool, collected confidence that comes with dressing in well-tailored looks made from expensive fabrics. Think about it, clothes can be used to seduce, beguile, transform and disguise, so why not take advantage?

Upgrade yourself into the VIP section with some quick tips on buying the perfect suit:

The all-important fit
One clear way to distinguish yourself from the crowd is to wear a suit that fits you perfectly. That means shopping at retailers who offer a wide size range (from 00-15/16), and taking it to a tailor to customize it to you. It’s a small investment with huge payback.

Expensive fabrics may be worth it
One of the biggest contributors to the price of a suit is the fabric used to make it. And when it comes to fabric, there’s no faking it. The more expensive it is, the better it will look and the better it will wear time after time.

Classic cuts are timeless
If you are looking for an investment piece to wear for awhile to come, get your suit in a classic silhouette, not something trendy. Use what you wear with your suit (your shoes, shirt, handbag and accessories) to make the fashion statement of the moment and you’ll find that as trends change, your suit will stay in style.

The 5 Best Hair Looks of Spring 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 13:15:00 +0000

The 5 Best Hair Looks of Spring 2009

Hair trend to love #1: The bob
Boyishly short bobs are so in demand, even bargain salons have perfected them. Ask for a cut that’s short at the nape of the neck and longer on the top and sides. To wear it sleek, blow-dry, then run a flatiron down your hair, says Guido, a Redken creative consultant. If you want to make your bob piecey or wavy, scrunch in a cream.

Pick a bang, any bang
Sideswept, choppy, chunky—they all look good with an itty-bitty bob.

Straighten up with a flatiron like Sedu Revolution Ionic Styler ($140, folica.com).For waves, try Sally Hershberger Wreck & Roll Texturizing Cream ($13, at Walgreens).

If you need fullness
Lather up with one of the new formulas that boost body, like L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Volume Shampoo ($7, at drugstores). It’s extra gentle on color-treated or relaxed hair.

If you need a fried-hair fix
The hair equivalent of a heat-seeking missile: Conditioners zoom in on spots needing TLC (now that’s technology). Herbal Essences Hydralicious Self- Targeting Shampoo ($3.50, at drugstores).

If you need softness
Winter’s the cruelest season for hair, so show it some love with a moisturizing shampoo like Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Smooth Vitality Shampoo ($4, at drugstores). It has nourishing avocado.

Hair trend to love #2: Big curls
“These swoops are classically romantic,” says Luigi Murenu, a hairstylist for Kérastase Paris who worked the European spring shows. Twist the curling iron from the ends of hair up (like a hot roller); hold for 15 seconds; release. Then brush the curls out just on the surface to loosen them, add some shine cream and gaze happily into the mirror.

Work that side part!
Toss hair over your shoulder for a retro-glam look. Red lipstick doesn’t hurt either.

For sheen: John Frieda Frizz-Ease Secret Weapon ($6, at drugstores)

Great on short hair, too
Use a smaller iron to get curls—but don’t go too close to your part.

Hair trend to love #3: Chignons
Hair with a split personality—crisp in front, romantically full in back—can be a great thing. “Make a pony, then crimp or braid it,” says Murenu. Short hair? Use clip-in extensions to add length; drugstore ones work fine. Twist the tail completely around the base and pin. Finish with a frizz fighter.

Hide bobby pins behind your ears and at your nape.

To get the front neat and sophisticated: Fekkai Coiff Anti-Frizz Silkening Crème ($25, sephora.com)

No-time method!
Make a ponytail, then pull hair only halfway through the elastic.

Hair trend to love #4: Mid-parts
Centered styles look natural and chic at once, says Murenu. To get hair all schoolgirl straight, apply gel to towel-dried strands, draw a center part with a comb, blow hair dry in sections with a big, round brush and do a once-over with a flatiron. If you’d like waves instead, scrunch mousse into damp hair and make your part. Twist strands into ropy spirals, blow-dry on low (or air-dry) and rake your fingers through.

Look, ma: No bumps!
Clamp the iron gently and quickly slide down to avoid crimps.

Make waves: Tresemme 24 Hour Body Foaming Mousse ($4, at drugstores).

Apply preblowout: Redken Blown Away 09 ($16, redken.com for salons).

Hair trend to love #5: The pony
Ponytails on runways? Yes—and they can be just as impressive in real life. “Play around with textures,” says Guido. Tease it (grab sections; run comb rapidly up and down) for a sexy weekend look. Or go sleek for work: Apply a glosser like Bumble and Bumble Gellac ($24, bumbleandbumble.com) and make a low pony.

Bands like Smoothies Metal Free Hair Elastics ($4, smoothiesbyintuition.com) prevent snags.

Dress it up
Wrap a section of hair around the base; pin.

Will You Buy Lindsay's Tanning Line?

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 09:56:00 +0000

Will You Buy Lindsay's Tanning Line?

Lindsay Lohan is known for a lot of things, but when it comes to beauty, her spray tan ranks high on the list. And now, she's hoping her faux glow will rake in the dough. Although it sounds absolutely unreal, Lindsay Lohan spends $70,000 a year in fake tanning. That's more than a lot of people make -- and she throws that much down on her orange sunshine in a bottle annually. As she revealed to E! in this interview, she's working on a spray-tanning system to be sold at Sephora. She also talks about her latest tattoo ("It's, like, a women empowerment thing") and diamond jewelry collection. No word on when the tanning product will hit stores, but when it does, will you be buying it?

New York Fashion Week: Tadashi Sohji Fall 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 07:48:00 +0000

New York Fashion Week:
Tadashi Sohji Fall 2009

New York Fashion Week: Ralph Lauren Fall 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Precidia Bordeaux) — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 08:32:00 +0000

New York Fashion Week:
Ralph Lauren Fall 2009