27.2.09

Is Blue the New Black?

Spotted: blue lashes on the college campus?! My fashion insider on the college scene has informed me that blue mascara is in. Blue, the new black? Like any fashionista closer to 30 than 20, I have to pause for a moment to consider what this means for my cosmetic agenda: Am I too old to rock this? After all, my beauty needs have become fairly standard, with the exception of red lipstick when I'm feeling sassy or the smokey eye for a night out.

I can vaguely recall colored mascara making a brief appearance in my high school days, but it was short-lived. Don't get me wrong; if I was stranded on a desert island and could only have two items of make-up, mascara would DEFINITELY be one (lip gloss would be the other, obvi). But what I like most about mascara is its ability to make my lashes long, lush, and blacker than black (hence the reason I love Dior Blackout soooo much). So blue mascara--or any color for that matter--really throws me for a loop.

So what's a girl to do? Yes, I google. Benefit's new BADgal Blue heralds itself as "an eye brightening blue mascara!" It's designed to make eyes look "whiter and brighter," as "the deep blue violet shade enhances your eyes." I question the necessity of eyes looking whiter, but of course I'm all for enhancing my eyes--what sane girl isn't?

However, I remain skeptical, or perhaps just loyal--I feel fully confident that the layers upon layers of black mascara that I apply meticulously each morning give my green eyes all the "pop" they need. I will admit that I am a teensy bit curious, though, and certainly overdue for a trip to Sephora. So the question remains: is blue the new black? Tune in to the next episode.
Mascara by Benefit, available at Sephora or online at www.sephora.com.

26.2.09

Fashion Loves Manners & I Love Kate Spade



According to Ralph Waldo Emerson, "Manners are the happy ways of doing things." I couldn't agree with this sentiment more, but unfortunately for Mr. Emerson (and me), manners and etiquette are a dying art. Answer honestly: when is the last time you wrote a thank-you note? Though my husband insists that thank-you notes are archaic, I can promise you that etiquette is never unnoticed. This etiquette void is tragic because fashion looooves manners! Just ask Kate Spade.

Kate Spade's very philosophy insists that fashion and manners are inseparable, as "The company continues to draw inspiration from famous classics like the harris tweed jacket, the belgian loafer, the poplin trench coat, and the oxford cloth shirt. The design inspiration is complemented by a company culture that places great value on a genuine and gracious manner in all relationships and communications." Accordingly, Kate Spade touts timeless apparel and accessories, as well as chic stationary. The result? A fashionista with manners?--ooh la la!

As far as Kate Spade's paper collection is concerned, I am an addict. For general correspondence, I am loving the "psst..." stationary: these words printed in block lettering on a card edged in blue, with an envelope featuring a sketch of a paper plane to remind you of bygone days (at least for those who could actually make a functioning paper plane, myself sadly not included). For the classic thank-you, I am tickled pink by the "tickled pink." Of course, this irresistible title is embossed in script on a hot pink card. Now what better incentive do you need to channel those manners and start writing?

Psst: Visit Kate Spade online at http://www.katespade.com/ to print a coupon for 20% off any full priced item from the Kate Spade shop (under "Kate Spade Shops"). Now, who doesn't love etiquette at a discount?

25.2.09

The Ankle Boot Saga: Why So Obsessed?



I'm not going to lie. When ankle boots first took the fashion world by storm, I was NOT a fan. I know, I know, how is this possible? I blame my hesitation on two things: 1) I fear change and 2) I fear change. I mean, ankle boots? Are they a shoe? Are they a boot? Well, I am a convert to this fabulous shoe/boot hybrid that I fondly call the shootie.

Why So Obsessed? If you're an East Coast girl like me, then you have to deal with eternal winter. The prospect of going out in skimpy heels when it's below zero is kind of a deal-breaker. I mean, who wants snow actually touching their feet? Enter ankle boots.

Plus, don't you think it's high time you give your legs some attention? I'm all for tucking in skinny jeans or leggings with high boots or rocking my loyal Uggs on blustery days, but what about your legs, all covered up and ignored? Let them see and be seen already! Wear a thick pair of black tights, and I guarantee you New England girls that you'll be warm--and fabulous.


Ankle boots by Christian Louboutin.