Labor Day Love

I can’t believe it. Labor Day weekend is here! Looking for cocktails that help make the most of the last days of summer? Look no further! These summery, vibrant cocktails are perfect for sipping pool-side, at a Labor Day barbeque, or at a beach bonfire. So sit back, relax, enjoy these delicious cocktails and let’s toast to a great summer and fabulous fall.

SOBIESKI ISLAND SUNBURST

 2 oz. Sobieski Toasted Coconut Vodka

2 oz. orange juice

½ oz. cranberry juice

Serve in a tall glass over ice.

 END OF SUMMER BLUES

 2 ½ oz.  Sobieski Cytron Vodka

2 oz. Blue Curacao

1 oz. orange juice

Serve in a rocks glass with ice.  Garnish with orange slice.

CAMUSRITA

 2 oz. CAMUS VSOP Elegance Cognac

1 oz. lime juice

1 oz. orange juice

1 oz. Triple sec

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a glass.  Garnish with a slice of lime.

CLIFFDIVER

1 ¼ oz. CAMUS VSOP Elegance Cognac

½ oz. Ginger Liqueur muddled with fresh ginger (2 slices)

1 oz. unfiltered apple juice

¾ oz. lime juice

¾ oz. simple syrup

Shake all ingredients together and pour over ice cubes.  Garnish with slices of granny smith apple and a sliver of ginger.

LUCID SUMMER PUNCH

1 oz. Lucid Absinthe

2 blackberries

½ oz. ginger syrup

¾ oz. fresh orange juice

1 oz. gin

Muddle the berries in the ginger syrup and orange juice.  Add remaining ingredients.  Shake well with ice and strain over ice.

LUCID MINT MUSE (MY PERSONAL FAVORITE HERE!)

 1 ½ oz. Lucid Absinthe

2 oz. pineapple juice

Muddled mint leaves

Lime wedge

Top with Sprite or 7-UP Muddle mint leaves with lime wedge and add Lucid Absinthe.  Add ice and pineapple juice and shake briefly.  Top with Sprite or 7-UP and add mint sprig.

My March Beauty Must-Haves

Every girl wants to look tan and smell good. Well, at least I want to look tan. I recently attended a few beauty events and recieved some of these goodies in my gift bags or as gifts.  For me there is nothing more important than being tan so self tanners are essential in my beauty regimen as well as a good makeup remover(who is tired of their eyelashes falling out when they take their makeup off?), some matching perfume and hand cream, and argan oil for the hair. Here are a few things I have recently been using and I highly reccomend!

1. St. Tropez Tanning Lotion – specifically created to deliver a richer, deeper tan. Infused with aloe vera and long-lasting color—simply smooth it on for an ultra-even tan. The innovative Aromaguard™ fragrance technology eliminates the tell-tale self tan aroma by a minimum of 70%. sephora.com ; $32

2. Estee Lauder Gentle Eye Makeup Remover – This gentle, lightweight formula works quickly and gently to thoroughly remove powder eyeshadow and other eye makeup. neimanmarcus.com ; $20

3. Jergens^® Natural Glow +FIRMING Daily Moisturizer – gradually creates fabulous natural-looking color with a subtle skin-darkening complex. your local drugstore ; $9

4. Josie Maran Argan Oil – although it can be used on your skin to hydrate, I personally use it in my hair to give any split ends I may some oompf! sephora.com ; $48

5. Burberry Brit Perfume – Fresh and playful, the fragrance is a classic, green-oriental blend of lush fruits, sweet nutty essences, and soothing amber, vanilla, and Tonka bean ; sephora.com, $51

6. Burberry Brit Lotion – Burberry Brit body lotion gives a touch of moisture and fragrance for any place that needs to be softened and refreshed ; target.com ; $20

So…whaty do you all reccomend to add to my beauty routine? Always looking for suggestions!

Floral Fun!

I don’t know about you but lately, I have been feelin’ spring knocking on winter’s door. Maybe it’s just the sunshine here in NY and the fact that it’s already March but it is definitely time to start thinking spring fashion! When I think of spring I think of flowers and what better way to express this through FLORAL! I have always been afraid of floral but I am slowly starting to embrace it. Here are some FLORAL FUN pieces I stumbled upon today!

1. MICHAEL Michael Kors Dress. $195       2. H & M’s organic-cotton Hedda ballerina flats $15      3. Old Navy Floral Print Top $12       4. J. Crew Scarf $39

Obsession of the Day

I’ve been known to find something i really like and become obsessed with it. My current obsession is this Tory Burch Fedora from her spring collection. I will definitely be buying this to rock this summer. That blue and gold combo is perfection. Toryburch.com $95.

Trend Talk – Ombre

The Ombre Lip.

By now we are all aware that Ombre Hair is IN. How many of us have seen someone with ombre lips? I recently was at an event and spotted someone with ombre lips so of course, I had to ask them “why?” Personally I was not super attracted to the style because I think it makes someone look a little like a clown and I could just see myself walking into work and everyone staring at me. The ombre wearer told me it was the “next trend in the makeup world” but I am just not sure if this one will stick. Maybe I am just not bold enough to give it a try.

I want to know – what do you fashionistas think about Ombre Lips!?!?

 

Wordless Wednesday

amaze.

Take The Color Plunge…

c/o HGTV’s blog: Design Happens

Lately I have really been getting into decorating. Maybe it was all of those trips to Ikea and pretending I have a new house to decorate? I stumbled upon this picture and I fell in love. Look at these HOT PINK WALLS! Although I am not sure I could actually go through with putting this color on my walls(and I’m not too sure my future husband would allow that), this bold wall bright screams glamour.

I’m sure must people have thought about putting bold colors on their walls but have ultimately decided to play it safe. If you are redocrating this scream think twice about those boring colors on your walls and give something new a try.

Interior Designer Jonathan Berger put together this fantastic entrance hall and he defintiely took the color plunge. The end result: a glamorous warm welcome upon the entry of this home.

Wall Color: Benjamin Moore’s Razzle Dazzle

 

Color with Michael Kors – #NYFW

Michael Kors unleashed his autumn 2013 line this morning. I loved the different looks of this collection ; every style was so original. The runway was filled with tropical oranges and cobalt blues(my favorite!) and MK added black to almost all of his looks in some way or the other which made the colors stand out even more. Jackets, neon zip-suits, tracksuit trousers definitely underlined the athletic theme throughout the collection ; a theme I was not expecting at all. Michael explained to reporters backstage, “You’ve got to be an athlete to deal with life in the city today. I love the idea that you can have this urban polish but still be athletic.”

I can just picture the fashionists now skiing down the Aspen slopes in their camouflage-patterned fur coat, I’m sure that will go over well! Furs absolutely ruled along with tweed pencil skirts and orange and cobalt shirts.

Karlie Kloss closed the show in a jewel-encrusted mini with a trailing black train ; this was by far my favorite look of the show. Michael does it again.

Tory Burch Fall 2013 Collection #NYFW

As always Tory Burch did not dissapoint this morning with her stellar fall 2013 collection. Much like the woman herself, the collection was refined and classy ; her inspiration: the Neue Galerie, Gustav Klimt, and Lalique. Art Nouveau.

The collection was rich. Day to evening pieces including lots of statement jackets, peplum blouses, and knit skirts. Pieces were adorned with lace, colored metal, sequins, and crystals ; but it wasn’t just the clothes that were decorated. The accessories tried to steal the show with many of the models sporting shoes with dragonflies on them that shimmered in the light as they strut down the runway.

Here are some different looks from today. If you want to see the models walk the runway check out the live show from this morning here. http://www.toryburch.com/

I want to know what you all think of the Tory Burch Fall 2013 Collection?! #NYFW I’ll take one of each please!!

Grammy 2013 Red-Carpet Fashion

We all went into this year’s Grammys with a lot of expectations about what our favorite artists would wear. If you were like me, you were not surprised that not everyone listened to CBS’ decency code. I had so many favorites, and not-so favorites, but I narrowed it down to my top 3 best & worst dressed.

BEST DRESSED
Carrie Underwood – Two words: classy and elegant. She accessrorized her strapless black Roberto Cavalli dress with jewels said to be worth $31 MILLION. A girl can dream – To Die For! Absolutely my favorite of the night.
Rihanna – Ri Ri was quite conversative for what we are used to but I am not complaining(remember last year’s plunging neckline and revealing backside?) This year her Alaia dress gave her a more grown-up yet sexy look. Definitely loving this look on her and her long hair.
Taylor Swift – A new sexy T-Swift? She  looked stunning in a white, deep cleavage, J Mendel Grecian goddess gown ; I was totally not expecting her to wear something like this and that is why I loved it so much.

WORST DRESSED
Adele – It kills me to put you on this list because I adore you but this Valentino floral dress was not top notch. Although it definitely was awesome to see you in something different than your usual LBDs.
Florence Welch– This dinosaur inspired Givenchy dress was hideous. Yes, green is the color of the year but you did not need to wear it everywhere. It was WAY too much for me.
Kimbra – Your whimsical number by Jamie Lee was just not cutting it. I appreciate your attempt to be fun but the blue tutu like aspect ruined the dress.

Who was on your list for best & worst dressed?! Would love to hear your thoughts.

NYFW – Rafael Cennamo “21 Shades of Gold”

21 Shades of Gold, Rafael Cennamo, NYFW

Treat Your Lips This Winter

Kiss waxy sticks good-bye and treat those wintry lips with some of the best lip balms. These formulas will soften, smooth and protect your lips from the brutal cold. There is nothing worse than chapped lips, they can even ruin the most fabulous outfit.

If you’re lookng for a slight tint for your lips try Burt’s Bees Tinted Lip Balm. It hydrates and makes your lips look shiny. This comes in six shades, from pale pink to cranberry, that suitall skin tones.$7 burtsbee.com.

Bite Beauty Lush Lip Tint helps fend off collagen loss and wrinkles around lips with a powerful dose of antioxidants. It’s ultra-moisturizing and tinted, too and comes in six shades. $24 sephora.com.

Love.

[ yellow tail ] Pink Moscato

DSW Launches Glass Slipper Collection For All Of You Cinderellas

Have you been unsuccessful in landing your prince charming? Well DSW now has the solution for you. They are teaming up with Disney Living to create the Glass Slipper collection, scheduled to launch October 1st – just in time for the Blu-Ray release of “Cinderella” on the 2nd. This limited edition collection will include a variety of heels with fairytale-worthy jewel and lace – all under $89.95. Each shoe will include an embossed carriage logo ; now we can all finally pretend we’re princesses again! That’s completely acceptable in your twenties, right? If you’re looking for a steal on your wedding shoes I highly recommend these gems – they will truly make you feel like a princess on your big day. Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the collection https://www.facebook.com/DSW

Wordless Wednesday

mbfashionweek

The 5 Best Nail Colors for the Working Girl

There comes a point in a girls life that she needs to realize glittery pink nails are no longer exceptable for everyday wear, especially in the corporate world (although some of us are still having trouble accepting this – yes, it’s me). Retiring those bright nails can be tough, but it doesn’t mean you can’t incorporate some of that glittery fun into your new “adult” nails. Here are the top 5 best nail colors for the everyday working woman, something for everyone, even that princess who still loves her pink ; colors that will be especially great for the upcoming fall season.

c/o Essie.om, Orly.com, OPI.com

The Newest Weight Loss Trend

A plate that makes you feel guilty about eatting too much in a polite way? enough said –  I. LOVE.

Wordless Wednesday

c/o thisnext.com

4 Ways to Ace Your Fashion’s Night Out Ensemble

Fashion’s Night Out: A chance for your everyday fashionista to join editors, stars, models, and designers as they celebrate fashion’s most fabulous extravaganza in cities across the world! Obviously this means you need the perfect outfit. FNO can be stressful enough trying to navigate the streets of NYC(or any city) and planning your itinerary minute by minute so you don’t miss a thing so I am here to minimize your anxiety. Here are four easy-to-emulate ensembles that cover all the FNO bases.

Jumpsuit, Arden B – this is casual, yet a sexy number with its low neckline. This two-toned option adds some style to your everyday black jumpsuit. Stud diamond earrings and black heels are best with this ensemble.

Blue Dress, TopShop & Tory Burch flats – the hi-lo hem is IN this Fall so why not rock the hottest trend in fashion right now at the most popular night in the fashion industry. Pair this blue dress with nude, TB flats – a classic and elegant look. Add a statement necklace for some pop.

White/Black Top, Forever21, Red Pants, H&M & Wedges, Steve Madden – the ultimate casual outfit for the fashionista who will be running around town all night. This outfit is not only stylish but it is comfortable! Add some statement earrings or necklace to this piece and it’s a winner.

Lace Shirt, Karen Miller, Glitter Shorts, TopShop & Jessica Simpson Heels  – this is THE sexy mama outfit. With the low neckline and short glitter shorts you are sure to catch the eye of everyone and will look top notch in Page Six the next day? (a girl can dream!)

You are sure to be a stunner in one of these oufits. Remember – you never know when the camera might snap your picture soo get your glamour on this September 6th in the honor or Fashion.

The Sole Says It All

Christian Louboutin, the king of the sole. Every girl dreams about sporting those red-soled beauties but in reality, we all can’t afford it. If you’re a low-budget fashionista who is dying to have an original sole I have two fabulous solutions for you. Shoedazzle has an adorable pink sole – the “signature sole” of their line. I own 3 pairs of these pink-soles and to be honest, people usually ask me if the are custom-made Louboutins, especially in a dark bar! Here are two of my favorites…

I recently got to sample a pair of Arch Tags and they are the BEST way to dress up your sole. I can’t believe I never knew about this company before, I am totally obsessed. Starting at just $12.99 you can change the sole of your shoe to go with your mood or function you’re attending. They have everything from subtle plain colors to blingy patterns(my personal favorite). I got to try out the Mooove Over Louboutin pattern and I recieved so many compliments! Aside from loving the name, this black & white pattern was perfect for the bar and for work. You can much these colors to any outfit you where so these shoes became a staple in my wardrobe. Why buy several pairs of pumps just because you like the sole when you can make your own sole?! Arch Tags is brilliant and all of you ladies need to check out Arch Tags – I promise you’ll fall in love.

c/o Arch Tags

Hot Right Now BIG Fashion Accessories

Size Matters in your wardrobe as BIG IS IN! Although some would beg to differ that less is more when it comes to jewelry I disagree. Large statement pieces are in and here are 4 must-haves to finish any outfit.

1. The Statement Necklace: There are so many different types of statement necklaces. Pair one with jeans and T-shirt to dress up the dress down look or use it to accessorize a cocktail dress.

2. Oversized Earrings: Weather you like studs or drops make sure they are large. If you are wearring a statement necklace definitely pair it with large studs – try not to mix statement necklaces and oversized earrings.

3. Cocktail Ring: Nothing finishes off an outfit better than a large ring. What girl doesn’t want a large diamond?! I suggest wearring large rings on your middle finger, especially large diamonds – wouldn’t want to give that cute guy next to you the wrong idea 😉

4. Bangles: Wear sets of bangles at the same time! Anywhere between 5-10 bangles is great without overdoing it. Usually just 1 small bangle wil dissapear on your wrist but a set will make sure to get attention.

Here are some pieces from my jewelry collection that I ADORE. All from baublebar.com

The Caviar Manicure

Apologies for the blogging hiatus – welcome to the life of a PR gal. I’m back with something amazing that every woman will adore.

A Caviar Manicure? YES PLEASE! Ciate recently launched their Caviar Manicure – it is to die for. This created in London, one-of-a-kind nail part innovation brings avant-garde style to your fingertips. Each features pearlescent beads for a 3-D effect and comes in 3 different styles.

I love this because it lets you become an instant nail connoisseur and you will stand out from the regular girl with the everyday, standard manicure. This is definitely a well worth it investment although it’s $25 per kit. Check them out at sephora.com! #gottahaveit.

c/o Sephora.com

Wordless Wednesday

c/o Flickr

Maxi Dress Mayhem

The Maxi Dress – the hottest fashion trend for women this summer. If you already own one I demand you to stop reading this & go get one! Actually…maybe two or three. When selecting which maxi is best for your wardrobe think summer fun. You want to mix it up and get patterned and multi-colored maxis. Solids are always good to have too but find a solid bottom with a colored belt and different colored type – color block clothes are on!
I own 9 maxis; solid, stripped,multi-colored, short-sleeve, and sleeveless. Must have a variety so I can be prepared for all occasions. The best thing about maxis is they can be used as a hang-around, run errands outfit but can also be dressed up for dinner dates and work! Personally I don’t feel maxis work in a bar or club. However the hi-low maxi-type dress is going to be the next hottest trend and has my approval for the night scene. Here is a collage of my maxis that I am rockin’ this summer -some from Target, Old Navy & Lauren Conrad Collection- I hope you love yours as much as I love all of mine Xx

The ‘Anti-Cheating’ Wedding Ring – The Must-Have for All Couples?

I never thought It’d have to come to this. A ring that imprints the words, “Im married” into the wearer’s finger. Worried that your spouse has a wandering eye? Well worry no more because taking off that wedding band might not let anyone off scot free.

According to the NYDailyNews.com, the blogosphere is buzzing over this new ring that promises to keep spouses faithful. Personally, I am not sure how I feel about this. Sadly, in today’s world the wandering eye is all to familiar to all of us single people and married folk. What happened  to monogamy – is it really that terrible to be with just one person? We won’t get into that as we would be here forever.

Here are my preliminary thoughts on this new ring. Asking your husband-to-be to wear this will start more issues than it’s worth. I’m aganist it – what happened to trust? However, can they make this ring in “I’m engaged?” I know some of my girlfriends would agree with me on that one 😉

These titanium rings are sold on the website TheCheeky.com. The cost of fidelity? A mere $550. What do you ladies think…worth it?

Photo Credit: thecheeky.com

What’s In My Bag?

One of my favorite things to do is organize my bag. I know it sounds boring, but it’s something I do often as I change which hangbag I carry at least once a week. The key to your handbag satisfaction is being organized. I suggest putting your things in smaller bags (the bag within the bag) and your makeup in a cosmetic case. My bags within the bag are from Michael Kors, Tory Burch, and Vera Bradley and they are key to being able to know where all of my things are!

Here’s what’s in my bag…So what’s in yours?!

WINETAILS! THE SUMMER COCKTAIL FOR THE MODERN DAY WOMAN

Sure, there are those who believe any cocktail is refreshing and suitable for summer. And they have a point. But when you’re grilling, or feasting on clams, or kicking back by the pool, some combinations of  ingredients do quench the thirst better than others.

First, consider fruit. There’s a reason why Gatorade® and lemonade are popular in the summer months. They rely on the sweet-and-tart balance that only lemon, lime, and sugar can provide. Try this Moscatonade! It is sure to keep your whistle wet.

Ingredients: 
1 oz Luksusowa Vodka
2 oz [ yellow tail ]® Moscato
1 oz lemonade
Lemon
Directions: Muddle ingredients in a martini shaker. Shake lightly for 6 seconds. Strain into a collins glass and garnish with a lemon slice.

 

 

 

Bubbles are another well-known refresher: Add Sparkling Wine to any drink and you will feel more refreshed than ever. Beat the summer heat this year with Exotic Temptation!
Ingredients:
2 oz [yellow tail]® Sparkling Rosé Wine
1 oz Peach vodka
1 oz Cranberry Juice
1 oz Lychee Syrup (or puree)
Strawberry
Directions: In a cocktail shaker with ice, add all ingredients except [yellow tail] sparkling Rosé wine. Strain into glass. Slowly top off glass with [yellow tail] sparkling Rosé. Garnish with a fresh strawberry.

Wordless Wednesday.

Fashionista & Baseball Fanatic?

Summer is here and that means you are bound to attend a baseball game. Whether you are a true fan of the game or being dragged to a game with your guy or friends remember one thing: sporty does not mean manly! There are so many companies who are finally beginning to realize this so there is no excuse for looking frumpy at a game anymore. Let your inner fashionista shine at the ballpark with apparel from major names like Victorias Secret and Old Navy.
If you’re feeling like the casual look is the way to go try this shirt from Old Navy with some cute white shorts or jean shorts. The back of this shirt will have you making quite the statement as well…

For a sexier look definitely rock this outfit from Victorias Secret PINK Major League Baseball Collection.

Beach Beauty

I know what you’re thinking – who thinks about being beautiful while sweating on the beach? I DO! And so should you. I’m well aware that spending over $20 on beach gear that is going to be in the sand and water is wildly inappropriate, but if you’re like me and want to look fabulously fashionable on the beach this summer Coach has the best beach accessories for you! Personally I own and adore this towel – it has made me feel way more fab on the beach this summer.

c/o Coach.com