March 2017 – The Red Clutch

Product Review-E.l.f. Foundation and Concealer

I have been trying out a new foundation and concealer these past couple days and although my initial impression of it was “this is cakey as heck!” I am quickly growing to love it.

I stumbled upon these products while looking at an e.l.f. email that promised they could find your perfect foundation match. Of course, I was intrigued. I clicked and was taken to a short questionnaire that asked the amount of coverage you wanted, the finish (matte, semi-matte, luminous/glowing), and your skin tone.

I picked medium coverage (my skin has been a bit problematic lately), semi-matte, and light. This is the one I was matched with! It’s the acne Fighting Medium Coverage Foundation in Buff. It’s only $6 at Target but only comes in a few shades (Buff is the second lightest). That was the first downside to this. I was surprised with how dark it looked compared to my skin even though it was supposed to be on the lighter side. I went back and got the Porcelain shade which I was worried would be too light because I would never use the word “porcelain” to describe my skin tone but luckily it was a perfect match. I am keeping the darker shade for in the summer. I think it’ll match really well once I’m tan.

While I was there I picked up a concealer too. The first trip to target I got the Beautifully Bare Lightweight Concealer Stick in Fair/Light ($3 Target) but it wasn’t doing the job. It was too thick and it settles into the fine lines and didn’t cover my blemishes very well. So I exchanged it for the HD Lifting Concealer in Fair ($3 Target). This is way more effective at covering blemishes and really does give you a lifted wide awake look. The only downside is that the color of the concealer stick was much lighter and looked better when used for highlighting than the HD Concealer does which is more of a yellow base instead of a whiter base. Regardless I’m happy with my final purchases.

When I tried the foundation for the first time I was happy with how it looked. But as the day went on I could tell it was really just sitting on top of my skin and looking shiny as opposed to blending in with it and looking natural. I fixed this problem by setting it with a translucent face powder which I don’t normally do because the powder tends to accentuate my dry skin but the consistency of the foundation off set it really well and it lasted all day. It blends well when used with a beauty blender and has a nice amount of coverage without being too opaque.

I also got a lipstick which I loved…sorta… I liked the feel of it, it felt like lip balm and was hydrating, it was just the wrong color choice for me! I picked up the e.l.f. Moisturizing Lipstick ($3 Target) in Red Carpet. It was way too dark for my thin lips and light skin, at least for my liking. I ended up giving it to my sister who has more of an olive skin tone and thicker lips. It looked really nice on her! I would recommend it if you’re looking for a lip friendly lipstick that won’t dry out your lips. I plan on going back and getting a light pink shade.

Your Thoughts – Wisconsin Accountant

Tell us a little about yourself?

I am a 24 year old male in my last semester of my undergrad in accountancy studying at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Between working and studying I love to stay active, play guitar, and spend time with my friends and family.

How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?

This all depends on how much procrastinating I do, but I tend to take anywhere from a half hour to 45 minutes. 5 if nobody has to see me! (I take longer than the average guy, but that’s what happens when you’ve been blessed with a beautiful beard, gotta keep it in check!).

How would you describe your current style?

Right now I would probably lean towards business casual. But in my free time more laid back casual or sporty. I like to dress in comfortable but nice clothes and usually tend to lean towards solid darker colors. On a normal day I wear a nice pair of jeans and a sweater, v-neck , or workout apparel.

Do you have one particular style that you tend to stick with on a daily basis or does your style change?

Currently my daily basis style is business casual. I do try to switch it up during the week though, mostly just pairing stuff differently to brighten up the week. I dress for my day mostly, and I like to feel confident in what I’m wearing which seems to change daily.

How has your style changed over the years?

Oh gosh haha. Well, I grew up as a mis-matched 90’s baby. I didn’t have much to any style as a kid. I really didn’t care until high school when I was able to start buying my own clothes. And that’s when I went through a weird “skater” phase where I would only wear certain brands, mostly Burton and tight jeans that no man should ever wear. After high school that style faded within the first year in college. My style quickly grew in to what it is today when I realized I should probably dress more for my age.

How do you view fashion?

Dress for success. I feel like style is supposed to be about you, what makes you feel the most confident and ready for your day. Everyone has different views and needs in the way that they dress.

Being a guy, do you have any certain things you keep in mind when it comes to your style or what you wear?

Yes of course! Colors matter, some don’t go together. Most importantly the belt better match you shoes.

What’s your favorite piece of clothing in your closet? Why is it your favorite?

Hmm I do have one favorite shirt and I can’t tell you why it is. It’s very different from my normal style, and soon it probably won’t even be wearable because I’ve washed it too much by now (tear), but its just simply a graphic tee that I always thought fit me perfectly.

Is there a certain style/trend that has caught your eye?

Yes!!!Currently the crazy socks trend. When I discovered this I instantly fell in love with all the cool expressive socks that you can buy from men’s wear house/online/etc. My collection is quite extensive now. If you want to get a start think about joining sock club! Its like harrys shave club

but for socks! Cool right?!

Is there a style/trend that you’ve been wanting to get into?

Sometimes I wish I could get away with dressing like a hipster but it never works!

Lastly, what is your favorite feature about yourself? Why?

Definitely has to be my beard. Like I mentioned before, its pretty exquisite. And its red!

Your Thoughts – Alabama Grad Student

Tell us a little about yourself?

I am currently a 23 year old graduate student majoring in Mathematics.

How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?

I usually take about an hour to get ready unless I decide to put on sweats, a cute hat and Ugg boots!

How would you describe your current style?

I would probably say simple and sporty but sometimes experimental and elegant when I have a certain look in mind. I love to wear loose tops with a fitted ripped jean and/or boot or sandal, a comfortable t-shirt with jeans and fashionable tennis shoes for long class days, or my all time favorite of maxi dresses with a pop of colorful jewelry!

Do you have one particular style that you tend to stick with on a daily basis or does your style change?

I tend to change up my style depending on my mood and the unpredictable weather of Alabama! But I do believe my “go to” style matches my current lifestyle of a full time student, mainly wearing ripped jeans with a funky t-shirt (with quotes or known characters on it) and a comfortable but fashionable shoe.

How has your style changed over the years?

I think over the years I have toned down from extremely bright colors (neon) and do not have a lot of glittery pieces as I use to before. I would say I’m more conservative but in a good way!

How do you view fashion?

I view fashion as a way to show who you truly are. Not everyone’s style is the same and that’s the good thing about fashion!

Being a woman, do you have any certain things you keep in mind when it comes to your style or what you wear?

Number one thing I keep in mind with what I wear is staying true to myself and my body shape. There is a way to show “enough” and still be beautiful. I love my body and all the imperfections it may have and I have to be considerate of that.

What’s your favorite piece of clothing in your closet? Why is it your favorite?

My favorite piece of clothing would have to be my cardigans. It is my favorite because a cardigan can be used to dress up or dress down and still be cute and fashionable. It’s great for lazy days and cute for a classic chic look!

Is there a certain style/trend that has caught your eye?

Not lately!

Is there a style/trend that you’ve been wanting to get into?

The most I would like to do is step out on my comfort zone and wear more brighter colors like mustard yellow, turquoise blue, etc.

Lastly, what is your favorite feature about yourself? Why?

My favorite feature is my legs. Although I struggle to find the perfect jean at times, the first thing I always say after getting dress is “Look at my legs! Looks like I actually have been working out!”

ABC’s of Fashion! – D E F G

On with our ABC’s!

D if for Dress

I wasn’t really a dress girl up until a year ago. I always thought they added too much girly-ness to an outfit and that they were to complicated to wear. I. was. wrong. Dress are one of the easiest and most comfortable things to wear. If you don’t want to try to to put together an outfit with pants, a top and a sweater, just throw on a dress. One dress can make your whole look go from “I was running late” to “I look good”! Here are a few different dress styles to try out. experiment with different patters, colors, textures and unusual pairings to make it fit your own style and mood. My personal favorite is the wrap dress because it flatters your natural curves and hides the places you don’t want people seeing. It isn’t form fitting but you don’t lose your shape because of the waist cinching tie.

E is for Eye wear

I am super excited about this one! I have had glasses all my life (well since third grade) and I’ve had some really cool pairs. Only with my most recent pair I’ve really started to think of my glasses as an accessory as opposed to something I HAVE to wear when I run out of contacts. Sunglasses are included in this section but I feel like we are all pretty familiar with them and they don’t need much explaining. Eye glasses, however, are becoming more popular among those who don’t rely on them for actual sight. There are fake glasses being sold everywhere because people are starting to realize how much they can add to an outfit! The top picture are very close to the ones I currently own.

F is for Fitness apparel

I’ll be honest, I don’t work out. BUT I do own some very cute workout clothes because let’s face it, it’s comfy! Whether you are a professional lounger who loves sports bras and sneakers or a workout junkie, this should make you wanna go on a workout shopping spree!

G is for Gloves

This one is pretty self explanatory. When it’s a bit chilly and you need to keep warm try on a stylish pair of gloves! there are styles for formal occasions, driving and everyday.

ABC’s of Fashion! – A B C

I’m going to highlight an aspect of fashion for each letter of the alphabet. This is going to be challenging considering I have no idea what to put for some (X…I’m looking at you…) but it’ll help expand our knowledge of fashion and help us branch out for our safe little fashion bubbles. This will be a multi-post topic so check back often to see new additions!

A is for Accordion Pleat

The accordion pleat can be worn in so many different ways but my favorite right now is in a knee length skirt. It’s such a classic style as you can see in the image below.

Fashion recycles itself and I am loving the fresh take on this skirt. For a night out, drop the length and wear one in a cool metallic fabric. A bright color adds that much more oomph to it too! Keep all other pieces of the outfit simple to maintain the focus on the skirt.

If edgy isn’t your style, you can keep the classic feel of the style by using one color in different shades. The outfit below stays in shades of blue while adding a pop of color on the lip. This is a more subtle way to make a statement. And if all one color is a bit too much for you, you can break it up by adding a colorful bag like in the image.

B is for Blush

Oh blush how I love you so! It can easily brighten a tired face or pull together a makeup look. Anyone can look good in blush no matter what color it is, you just need to keep your skin tone in mind. Pink and coral are great classic blush colors for every day look or formal events. The funky colors are for those days when you are bored with the same old same old. If you’re going to experiment with a new blush color keep the look simple to prevent it looking clownish. I suggest pairing it with a similar gloss to help keep it cohesive.

C is for Cardigan/Coat

Everyone should own at least one cardigan. It’s a staple in fashion and can be worn in any season depending on what you layer under or over it. Here are a few ways to wear a cardigan without resorting to the same look. (These are all long cardigans but the same tips work for other lengths as well.)

Keep the colors bold to make them more of a statement rather than just another layer. This rich rust color will look really nice in the fall.

Keep the colors neutral for a casual sophisticated outfit.

Keep a simple grey one in your closet for when you want an extra layer at work but don’t want to wear a full blazer.

Just like the cardigans, coats can be layered up and add an extra element to any outfit. If you’re a forever-cold-person like I am, you probably have a few coats that are more functional than fashionable. Those work for when you’re running to get groceries, but when you would rather me more fashionable, try these styles to feel a bit more fabulous while still feeling cozy.

Pub Crawl/Going Out Fashion Tips

Putting thought into your going out outfit will save you so much hassle. The right shoes, bag, coat, and pants make all the difference. Some if this advice may seem like common sense but you don’t always think about these things when you get caught up in the getting ready process.

The Necessities

Let’s just get this out of the way. Always bring your ID, phone, and money (preferably cash since some bars don’t accept cards and it saves you from paying annoying ATM fees)

The Extras

In addition to the the necessities, I like to bring mint gum, lip gloss or chapstick, and a hair tie. I also bring snacks. No, I’m not kidding! I bring something small for when you get a little hungry but aren’t ready to go get food. It also comes in handy when you’re walking back home and just can’t wait to eat. I’ve brought candy, fruit snacks and even cookies. Yea it may seem weird to pull out food but when everyone is drinking you’re going to have people asking for a little bit. I’ve even had friends start to bring their own snacks with them!

The Right Shoes

The style of shoe matters a bit. If you’re going to a place that’s crowded I suggest wearing closed toe shoes. You don’t want to step in something and have it seep into the open part of the shoe…gross… Also, especially if you are going out when the weather is a bit chillier, closed toe shoes are going to keep your feet warmer.

Next think about heel height. I like wearing a shoe with some kind of height to help elongate my legs but I stick to a thick heel since it’s more comfortable for me to walk and stand in. I also don’t go much higher than 3 inches. If you can walk around comfortably in 6 inch stilettos then go for it! The main point is to pick something you’re going to be comfortable in. Taking off your shoes when your drunk walking home from the bars is never a good idea, even if it seems like it at that moment!

My going out shoes are a pair of block heel combat boots. Since they are black they go with any outfit I choose and they add a little bit of edgyness.

Pants + Top

Pick a pair of pants that you consider comfortable. Don’t just stick to denim! There are so many styles to experiment with that are way more comfortable than denim. It depends on your outfit but make sure it’s something you can easily unbutton for those frequent bathroom breaks! Also think about dancing! You don’t want to be pulling up your pants every two seconds so make sure they fit well and are easy to move around in. Don’t try to squeeze yourself into your tightest skinny jeans, I’ve been there and it’s not worth it…

Your top should be comfortable too. (See the pattern yet?) If it’s colder out make sure you layer up or add a warm enough jacket. Do keep in mind though that when you’re in a crowded area it’s going to be warm so make sure you’re not going to sweat your butt off either. For some pub crawls they offer T-shirts so layer a long sleeve under it if you need some extra warmth.

Purse + Accessories

When it comes to jewelry make sure you wear items that you might not care if you loose it or if it breaks. It’s rare that it would happen but if it does you won’t be as upset over it.

Pick a purse that isn’t going to be a bother while you’re out. I always pick a cross body bag that way I can carry my things while still keeping my hands free (for the times when you’re carrying 4 drinks and 2 shots back to your table. #priorities) Sometimes not carrying a purse is the way to go, but I like to just because my phone doesn’t fit comfortably in my pocket. A clutch is a good option if you only have the basics to bring (ID, cash, phone). I don’t like carrying them when I’m going to crowded bars because it’s too easy to set down and leave without it. It’s also easier to have stolen unlike a cross body bag which is literally around your body. Regardless of the style, I suggest carrying a small or medium sized bag. You don’t want it getting in the way.

Stay Festive

If you’re going out for a special holiday (like I am this weekend for St. Patrick’s Day) maybe add some special little touches to get into the spirit. I plan on wearing the t-shirt that they are providing along with some cheap St. Patty’s temporary tattoos and maybe even a green eye look. It’ll help you get excited and be more in the party mood! And if you’re going out for St. Patrick’s day wearing green will also keep you from getting pinched!

Remember to always drink responsibly, take care of yourself and your friends and eat a good meal before hand and drink water while you’re out. Also have a designated driver or money for a ride home. Stay safe and have fun!

Rimmel London-Get the Look App Review

Have you ever foudn yourself looking at a model in a magzine and wish you could try on the makeup she’s wearing? Well Rimmel London just came out with an app called “Get the Look” that let’s you actually do that. It allows you to try on makeup looks that you find in magazines, pictures or from someone you’re seeing in person. Once I heard about this I knew I had to try it out.

When you first open the “Steal the Look” app, it gives you the option to “Steal the Look” (get a look from a picture outside of the app) or “Create a Look” (use the app’s pre-loaded makeup looks in the gallery). I chose to Steal the Look first.

Aside from my lack of expression (that’s my thinking face apparently) the app missed a very important part of the look…the red lips! That was the one thing I really wanted to see on myself and it didn’t do it. The eyes are okay, but they are over simplified which I guess you have to expect when you want a result this fast. I gave it another try with this next look.

This attempt was a bit more successful but still over simplified. The eye shadow looks a bit more grey than purple and it’s not nearly as pretty as in the actual photo.

Once you try on a look the app has an option to look at Rimmel London products that you can buy to help achieve that look. This is a VERY smart move on Rimmel’s part because it takes the guess work out of trying to find what products would work best. You can even order the products through the app and have them delivered to your door!

I also tried the looks gallery that is provided on the app and even that didn’t turn out how I hoped. I figured the bold blue liner would help but, not to sound like a broken record, but again it turned out over simplified.

There is a spot on the app labeled “Steal the Crown” where you can share your looks and vote on which one you like the best. It’s a cool feature and fun to see what looks other people are trying out.

Overall the app was okay. I’d give it a C. It has some glitches and the navigation is a bit confusing at times. It also crashed once and made my phone freeze up. The makeup looks don’t come out as I would plan but maybe it was my fault. It could’ve been the lighting I was in. It is a new app so maybe my expectations were a bit higher than they should’ve been but I love the concept of it and with some improvements it could become a very helpful tool for us makeup geeks.

UPDATE!

I am changing my rating to a C+ (so generous, I know!) because I tried the “Create Look” option and was very impressed by the result. You are able to try on specific products depending on if it’s a face, eye or lip product. Here’s what my finished look was. It’s fairly neutral because I’m not one for bold makeup but you can still see how much better it looks than the “Steal the Look” function. The app did close out while I was trying different products and the navigation was funky just like the rest of the app but I was still pleased with the results!

How to Wear a V-Neck

People tend to have a love/hate relationship with V necks. I personally love them. They help pull the look together and give your outfit a bit of visual interest compared to a simple crew neck. Below are a few outfit ideas for both women + men!

Casual

A plain V neck shirt with a pair of jeans and a cardigan is my go-to on the weekends. Pair it with a pair of sunglasses for that effortless cool girl vibe.

For a more vibrant take on the look above pair a simple V neck with a bold lip and bold shoes. To make it look cohesive, carry a clutch with bold colors in it. It’s still casual but shows a bit more personality instead of the chill “just rolled out of bed” look.

A v neck t-shirt should be a staple in any guys closet. Try a dark grey or a deep blue to keep it from looking like an undershirt. If you do want to go with a white one, make sure it is made of a quality fabric that’s thick enough to not be see through. Again, pair with jeans for a chill weekend look.

If you want to dress it up slightly, adding a cardigan will be perfect. For men, a cardigan with a collar will keep it from looking boring.

Polished Casual

I wasn’t sure what to categorize this as but I think you get the point. This is for when you want to look pulled together but still be comfortable in what you’re wearing. Women can use layering to help get this look. keeping the bottom simple will prevent your outfit from looking like you got dressed in the dark.

Layer will also help in men’s outfits too but especially if it’s a dressier shirt that you’re putting underneath. Even with edgier boots the look still looks like it belongs together.

Dressy

Now is the time when we start to get fancy. Adding the right pair of shoes will really help dress up a V neck even if the top itself isn’t the dressiest style. Adding a pair of white skinny jeans, heels and a clutch is a great option with a neutral colored sweater. If you make it an over sized one it adds a great contrast to the skinny jeans.

For men, stick with the examples from before but use darker colors. This will make all the difference.

There ya have it! Take inspiration form this, mix and match, or don’t follow any of my advice. It’s up to you; fashion is meant to be fun so take everything I say with a grain of salt and see what works best for you!

2017 Oscar Red Carpet Trends

Before the La La Land/Moonlight fiasco, it was the fashion that was stealing the show! Here are a few trends I noticed while watching Hollywood’s biggest stars walk the red carpet!

Simple Silhouettes

This was seen among quite a few stars. Sleek simple silhouettes is a huge trend right now. It really helps keep the focus on the wearer’s curves, hair and makeup. It accents it rather than overpowers the other elements. These silhouettes provide a nice timeless feel to any look.

Embellishments

Beading, fringe, lace, silk, feathers…it was all here! These elements added interest to otherwise generic dresses. I even got a hint of some flapper influence in some of the dresses which I thought was a fresh take on the popular 1920’s style.

High Neck Lace Gowns

I was pleasantly surprised to see multiple actresses wearing this type of dress. It’s a great way to make a statement and show some skin while still staying covered.

White + Cream

There were some dresses as seen above that were full of color but there were also quite a few actresses that chose to keep it fresh with a light cream or white dress. It’s such a timeless look and adds so much elegance.

For the most part the men stayed in traditional black and white but there were a couple that stood out! Who knew a blue tux could look so good? Riz Ahmed that’s who. Pharrell was standing out in a more subtle way. He followed the ladies’ embellishment lead and added some extra interest to his bow tie.