Episode 15: Dry Shampoo Saves the Day

Most days, I feel like there just aren't enough hours in the day.  I'm constantly dashing from one place to the next, while trying to squeeze in errands, exercise, quality time with the people I love--and the list goes on.  Fortunately, there are a few fashion and beauty tricks to make life a little bit easier for the gal on the go, which is precisely why I am so thankful for dry shampoo.

Pronto Invisible Voluminizing Dry Shampoo To Go, $11
Available from Sephora

Dry shampoo saves the day!  Seriously.  Perhaps my favorite is Oscar Blandi's Pronto Invisible Volumizing Dry Shampoo Spray, which is available in a handy to-go size that's perfect for tossing in your gym bag or throwing it in your carry-on while traveling.  If you don't have enough time for the full shower, shampoo, blow dry, and/or straighten routine, this amazing dry shampoo allows any fashionista who finds herself in a bit of a time crunch to cheat a little.  All it takes is a quick spritz, and ingredients such as gentle starches absorb excess oil and product build-up, while vitamin E and wheat proteins strengthen and protect the hair shaft.  The result is clean, voluminous hair--minus the use of water.


Don't get me wrong--nothing beats the refreshing feeling of freshly washed hair, but like I said, sometimes there just aren't enough hours in the day to do it all.  My dry shampoo has saved the day on a number of occasions, and I am thankful for not having to sacrifice style even when time was tight.

Episode 4: Not Your Ordinary Hair Tie

I'm all about accessories, but I have to admit that sometimes function takes precedent over fashion.  For example, the two black hair elastics that I wear on my right wrist everyday aren't really a fashion statement, though maybe I should claim them as my "signature look."  Rather, I keep them on stand-by for the million occasions I encounter during the day when I need to get my crazy long hair out of my face and get down to business.  Then, when my fabulous friend, Annie Rose, flew in from Seattle for a fun weekend visit last month, I learned that there are some hair ties out there that give function and fashion an equal opportunity.  These are not your ordinary hair ties--and for this (and a laundry list of other reasons) I am thankful to the lovely Annie Rose.

Emi-Jay Hair Ties in Cure Collection, $7.99

Created by Emily Matson and Julianne Goldmark, Emi-Jay Hair Ties are "guaranteed to make your outfit and your day."  These handmade hair ties come in just about every color that you can imagine and are sold in bundles of three to eight.  Made to be soft and stretchy, no matter how tight you pull your ponytail, they won't leave a dent in your hair.  But perhaps the best part is that each hair tie resembles a knotted ribbon instead of your standard elastic band so you can wear it around your wrist for a boho bracelet look until it's time to put your hair up.

With so many to choose from, the most difficult decision you will have to make when it comes to Emi-Jay hair accessories will be your desired color collection.  At the moment, I'm stuck on the Military Collection and the Rainbow Glitter Collection.  Looks like my two little black elastic bands are getting an upgrade--all thanks to my lovely friend, Annie.

The Straight and Narrow

Cosmetic confession: I have a standing date with my flat iron every morning at approximately 8:00 AM.  You see, I was blessed with not-quite-straight-but-not-exactly-curly-or-even-totally-wavy hair that is basically a hot mess when allowed to run wild. So I straighten religiously, with the help of the amazing GHD flat iron that I bought at the recommendation of my dear friend, Annie Rose.  Every now and then, when the mood strikes me, I opt for curl, but I generally keep things on the straight on narrow.


Straight Spray by Living Proof
$17 for 1.8 oz. or $29 for 5.5 oz.
Available at Sephora


The reason I felt the need to make this confession--that some might consider "TMI"--was so that you could understand how excited I was, upon opening Sephora's new fall catalog, to discover the mere existence of Living Proof's Straight Spray.  Until this recent discovery, I had actually never heard of Living Proof--and shame on me, for it turns out that the company was created just a stone's throw away from me in Cambridge, MA, and the Living Proof Story is actually a pretty interesting one.  The company was founded by Polaris Venture Partners (an uber successful venture capital firm) and a team of scientists that includes MIT professor Dr. Bob Langer, and it is this uniquely qualified team that allows Living Proof to utilize "advanced technology to solve beauty's toughest challenges."  The Straight Spray, a styling spray designed to extend the life of straight styles, is one of their newest inventions.

Here's how it works: The spray contains aerosolized PolyfluoroEster (trying saying that five times fast!), which is the fancy science term for Living Proof's breakthrough molecule that creates a weightless shield to prevent water from entering the hair shaft and ruining your straight strands. Straight spray can then be reapplied to wet or dry hair, so as to extend your style...for days.  As an added bonus, the lightweight formula is also said to repel dirt and protect against heat styling. Part of me feels like this all sounds too good to be true, but I ordered a bottle anyway--you know, as proof.  I opted for the smaller bottle size (1.8 oz compared to the larger 5.5 oz) to see just how seriously straight I can get, willing to risk the $17 on the off chance that this could be the beginning of some seriously fabulous hair.

Sweets--For Your Hair

Having recently experienced some of the hottest temperatures Boston has seen in quite some time, I know I'm not the only one who was struggling to keep my long hair out of my face and off my neck this past weekend.  Fortunately, the newest in hair accessories from lolly.brand made this task a snap--if not a bit stylish too!

Frosting your hair has never been this easy. Featuring a cupcake embedded with a single clear rhinestone, each pair of lolly.brand bobbies is available in a unique color combination so you can choose the set that's right for you.  They're available exclusively from lolly.brand's Etsy store so check them out and be sure to get first dibs on the color scheme that strikes your fancy.

Cupcake Bobbypins by lolly.brand,
$5 per pair
Available exclusively at Etsy.com

Texture

When I read about Bumble and Bumble's newest product, Bb. Texture, in January's Elle, I have to confess that my first thought was: now my hair can look like Blake Lively's. A girl can dream, can't she? Indeed, I've read countless articles in fashion magazines, where stylists dish on how to recreate the blonde beauty's (seemingly) effortlessly tousled tresses. It's never as easy as they say, but with the debut of Bb. Texture, I feel like I've discovered a secret weapon...

Bumble and Bumble's senior Artistic Director, Howard McClaren, explained that the company started seeing [that] hand-done, second-day-hair look on the streets and on celebrities like Alexa Chung and Mary Kate Olsen...but stylists were having to use a combination of products...to reproduce it. Amen to that. Too many products, not enough time, not worth the effort. To fill this gaping hole in the hair care market, Bumble and Bumble created Bb. Texture, touting the newly released product as a hair undressing cream. The directions are happily simple: Work a small amount of Bb. Texture through damp hair (a must), starting at the roots to ensure extra lift. Let the product sit for a minute, and then loosen and ruffle your hair with your fingers. For added volume, you can use a diffuser.

The promised result is hair with that undone-yet-done quality, with a hint of grit, hold and a tousled, shine-free finish. In plain English? Hair that looks like you couldn't care less--but let's be honest, we all do. Bb. Texture is available in two sizes, 5 oz. for $24 or 2 oz. for $12. Just in case it really is too good to be true, I opted for the smaller size when I placed my order online today. I couldn't be more excited to try it, and once I do, you'll be the first to know if--hair gods willing--my hair looks like Blake Lively's. Minus the color. Brunettes are better.

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Bb. Texture by Bumble and Bumble, $24 for 5 oz. or $12 for 2 oz, available online (www.bumbleandbumble.com); (2) clipping from Elle, thanks to Elle (www.elle.com).

Jingle All the Way

I find holiday-themed fashion an interesting thing to behold. Some opt for holiday sweaters that might have walked straight off the Bridget Jones set (which would make them "jumpers," no?); others pair snowflake or Santa earrings and necklaces; some go with a broader red and green color theme; and then there's the men around the office with the fun snowmen ties... I suppose I'm far less adventurous with my own personal holiday fashion, preferring a more subtle approach.

My favorite go-to accessory for the Christmas season is the red plaid headband that I "borrowed" from my adorable sister years ago.* While it is far less overt that some of the aforementioned options, I find it no less festive and definitely more versatile. When it really comes down to is my personal refusal to commit to a fashion theme. I see it not as a question of boldness (after all, did you see the animal print dress I so covet?) but more of a desire to think outside the box, if only in an understated way. And it is for this very reason that I find myself inspired to jingle all the way--to Kate Spade.

This year, Kate Spade's holiday look is all about jingle bells. If you're not one for headbands (shame!), then earrings, bobby pins, and/or rings are also fair game. Even without the one horse open sleigh, you'll still look dashing in the snow with these festive holiday accessories, made from 14 karat gold plated metal. I'm especially partial to the bobby pins, as they perform in both the form and function categories. I also love the little jingle bell studs that would bring a bit of holiday cheer to practically any outfit. Alternatively, if you're shopping for others, any of these would make a fun and fabulous gift (they come pre-boxed and basically too cute for words). Talk about ringing in the season!

*I fear that admitting this in writing will result in the forced return of this very headband and one very sad older sister--but such are the risks that I take in the name of fashion.

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Jingle Bell Bobby Pins $45 by Kate Spade, available online (www.katespade.com); (2) Jingle Bell Studs $45, also by Kate Spade.

Get Your Head In the Game

As a girl who is perpetually going between different types of bangs, I've come to appreciate the value of a good headband--which is only infinitely more valuable as far as workouts go. All the bobby pins in the world can't take the place of an immovable headband when you're in the middle of a yoga practice, out for a run, or even on the elliptical machine. Then again, all the bobby pins in the world don't usually cause horrible headaches or leave deep grooves in your hair when you remove them, post workout. Well, fitness babes, I'm here to share the solution...

Once again thanks to the amazing powers of lululemon, the Dance! Headband is truly the latest and greatest in hair accessories. I have to give my sister all the credit for this functional find; a few weeks ago, I complimented her on what I thought was two complimentary colored headbands... As it turns out, the Dance! is actually a single band with two connected straps, available in an array of fun colors. It's now my go-to for working out, for not only does it stay in place, it's also comfortable--two important features that I thought impossible to find in peaceful (and stylish!) coexistence. Truly, this headband is even so comfortable that I've worn mine outside of the gym. And for $9, you really can't go wrong... So get your head in the game!

Image: Dance! Headband in river rock/oasis $9 by lululemon (http://shoplululemon.com).

Heart This

Perhaps a certain part of me is still very much a little girl, but I just loooove things that sparkle! When I was a teenager (and even through part of college), this meant that I wore a lot of shimmery powder and glittery eyeliner. But now that I'm all grown up with an office job, I've had to resort to other means of sparkle--namely the subtle sheen of a good bronzer; a blinged out cocktail ring or another piece of statement jewelry; or a bit of glitz on a fun headband. You know, the little things. That said, you can only imagine how excited I was to come across the opportunity to heart something entirely new: the ban.do heart.

Yet another piece of adorable hair candy from the LA based ban.do, their signature red heart doubles as a hair clip and a brooch--allowing you to have your hair accessories and wear them too! Okay, so maybe this is not the hair clip for a serious board meeting, but that's the fun of it; when it doesn't work for wear in the hair, pin it to your tote, blazer, or cardigan. Wherever it goes, it will bring a little pop! of color and a little bit of sparkle with a price tag ($15!!) that you're guaranteed to heart.



Images: the ban.do heart $15 from ban.do, available online at www.shopbando.com.

Your Beauty Secrets: Revealed!

My girl Jane Austen once wrote, It sometimes happens that a woman is handsomer at twenty-nine than she was ten years before. This is often true--and often the result of our personal beauty secrets! But just for today, let's get loose with our definition of "secrets" and spill them, shall we? Having received so many fabulous answers, we could be here all day--but allow me to reveal five of your most fabulous beauty secrets. And just so we're clear, if ever there were a time for a drum roll, it would be now...

1. Do you dream of clear skin? One of the most infamous and (conveniently!) inexpensive beauty treatments ever: Bayer aspirin masques. A small handful of aspirin dissolved in your hands and scrubbed over you face, neck, and décolletage while in the shower is my beloved fashion guru's secret route to glowing skin. And while we can't all make it to the spa on the regular (sigh), I'm almost positive we all have a bottle of aspirin in the ol' medicine closet.

2. Say it with color! For those of you who don't have time to accessorize, a little pop! of color can go a loooong way. Amp up your look with a bold orange, a super-saturated blue, or a springy pink or yellow. As one fearless fashionista explained, these colors speak for themselves and require very little in the way of accessories!

3. Don't you just looove luscious lashes? A quick lash blast is possible with carefully applied eyeliner underneath your top lashes. The result: an instant boost that makes lashes look loads thicker!

4. You can have Marcia Brady hair every day! Even better, substitute her 100 brush strokes for this handy home remedy: olive oil. For shiny, healthy hair, generously apply olive oil to your hair (before washing) and wrap it in a warm/damp towel for as long as long as you can stand it (and don't be impatient!--15 minutes minimum). Then hop in the shower and shampoo as usual. Even salons can't replicate this kind of shine!

5. When in doubt, add more. Do you ever have one of those "blah" days when it feels like the only beauty remedy at your disposal is a pair of giant sunglasses that eclipse your face? Well turn that frown upside-down by rocking your favorite shoes, your most comfy jeans, a killer scarf, huge earrings--in short, everything but the kitchen sink! Sometimes fashionistas have to be fearless; don't be afraid to pull out all the stops.

You should know, reading all of your beauty secrets was like stumbling upon buried treasure in my back yard--so many fashionista friends, so much fabulous advice! Perhaps the best part about your expert beauty tips is that they are all possible with items already in your wardrobe, pantry, or first-aid kit. The truth is, sometimes high fashion is available on the cheap. So, lovely ladies, thanks for sharing--and until next time, I hope these five fabulous tips can help you look even more beautiful than ever (if that's possible!).

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, photo thanks to Born Today (http://www.born-today.com/); (2) Girl washing face, image from Beauty Chameleon (http://beautychameleon.com/); (3) Healthy hair, image from The Daily Green (www.thedailygreen.com); (4) Fashionista with all the frills, image thanks to Major(ISH) (http://www.majorish.com/).

Please Mind The Gap

Happy Monday, style mavens! After discussing Paris at length for the last few weeks, I thought that we might kick off this week by dishing about what the Brits are wearing. Between doses of proper English tea (and all the delicious goodies that go with it), Sarah and I were able to fit in a lotttt of shopping into just a few days in London--and with it, a lot of style watching too! Read on for a few trends of note that can easily be incorporated into your spring look...

Punk rock is all the rage amongst crowds of youthful London girls--but they don't make 'em like they used to. Today's punk rock look is a contemporary re-interpretation of the age-old trend, characterized by destroyed tights; bright colors worn in layers; biker jackets; heavy eye make-up; and hair for daysss (in all directions humanly possible, albeit with the help of hairspray). If there was ever such a thing as punk rock couture, then it can be found in London, where rocker is part runway, part imagination, and--at times--utterly feminine. And you know how I love the edgy/girly duality!...

The world is flat. As Sarah reported back in her dispatch from across the pond in September, London "women walk everywhere and for once, their footwear reflects the adage of form following function." But make no mistake, style is not up for negotiation. In fact, I've never seen more variation of flats: neon, patterned, blinged-out bejeweling... You name it, they wear it. Although a heel lover myself, my trip across the pond has made a convert out of me--especially after days of walking and majorly aching feet. I now totally understand the flat appeal: live it, love it--wear them!

Heavy bangs are everywhere, and though I may have had trouble committing to my bangs, the ladies of London are definitely not having the same commitment issues. After observing the ease with which they rocked their edgy cuts, I was half tempted to return to bangs myself--but with summer (and humidity) just around the corner, the necessary maintenance of a heavy bang was a deal breaker for this American girl. I guess I'll leave that one to the British babes.

Ankle boot obsessed: It seems that I have a little something in common with the girls across the pond, for they too are obsessed with ankle boots. I noticed them everywhere, especially in the flat variety (which makes sense, obvi, considering our above discussion of flats). In fact, Elle UK reported that ankle boots will be the summer's surprise fashion hit, especially when worn battered and boyish--like you're not even trying (even though we'll know better).

So there you have it, all the trends you'll need for a charming--yet utterly chic--London style. At least, that's the word according to this fashionista's trend spotting. While not all of these trends work for me, I am most definitely embracing flats this season, which is actually a big change for me (despite all 5 feet and 11 inches of me). Until next time, thanks for stopping by--and please mind the gap.

Images, in order of appearance: (1) London street style, photo thanks to Refinery29 (http://www.refinery29.com/); (2) Studded ballet slippers (a DIY project!), image from the Material Instinct blog (http://materialinstinct.blogspot.com/); (3) Kate Moss, photo from The Daily Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/); (4) London ankle boot street style, photo thanks to Elle UK (www.elleuk.com).

Great Minds Think Alike

After yesterday's big hair confessional, you can imagine my surprise (and delight) upon seeing an article on DIY big hair in today's Refinery29 email. For you fashionistas out there not yet acquainted with Refinery29, it's a New York based website devoted to discovering the newest and best in style, shopping, and emerging trends from the runways to the streets. Their almost daily emails serve as insider reports on the latest and greatest in fashion--and at least for today, big hair!

Perhaps, after reading my own personal tale of big hair, you felt justly compelled to give it a try? If so, allow me to pass along a few DIY secrets from the fashion gurus at Refinery29. So without further ado, click here--and let the crimping/teasing/frizzing begin!

Image from today's Refinery 29 email; Refinery29 is available online at www.refinery29.com.

Bigger Is Better

You may find this difficult to believe, but I was late to arrive at the flat iron party. In fact, I didn't actually own a flat iron until after college. I blame my hair stylist; how could they NOT have told me?!! While I was spending foreverrrr with my blow-dryer and a round brush, I could have been straightening in a snap! with the ease of a Chi. So maybe this is the reason that I have since been obsessed with straight hair? The same could be said of my TV addiction. We had (quite literally) no working channels on our TV growing up--and now watching all of my shows is like a full-time job! But I digress...

Whatever the reason, I have kept my hair on the straight and narrow for a good four years now. My Chi is a vital tool in my daily beauty routine, and I never leave home (overnight, at least) without it. Until a few days ago, that is... While killing time and perusing photos on Facebook from my recent weekend in Vermont with friends, I was startled to realize: my hair is flat. Straight to be sure, but flat flat flatttt? Ick. And just like that, I resolved to embrace the natural kink of my hair--enhanced with a few well-placed curls thanks to my curling iron, obvi.

Having come to this decision, I've noticed that big hair is everywhere in fashion--from the runway, to the red carpet, and featured in fashion editorial spreads like whoa. The common element: big hair equals glamour. Pump up the volume with curl and shape, and viola! Glamour. I decided to test this theory out for myself the past couple of days, ditching my Chi in favour of a little air-dry and a lot of curl. Once I got over feeling like my hair was a total mess, I sort of liked the way my hair totally took over. And what's more, I received more compliments than I had in...forever. What can I tell you? Bigger really is better.

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Dior models with big hair, photo thanks to The Juicer (http://www.thejuicer.net/); (2) straight hair model, photo thanks to Stylelist (http://www.stylelist.com/); (3) Angelina Jolie on the cover of Vanity Fair (www.vanityfair.com); (4) Hillary Swank, photo thanks to Celebrity Fashionistas (http://celebrityfashionistas.wordpress.com).

Winter Hair Woes: Gone!

In a lot of ways, my hair loves the winter. It requires faaar less work on my part to keep it straight and tame. Though I still have to flat iron, my prep time drops from ten minutes to five. So easy, right? The only problem: static. The cold, dry air results in so much static electricity that you could run a generator from my luscious locks!

Never one to keep my complaints to myself (not exactly my best quality), the lunch hour found me swapping hair-care woes with a few female coworkers. I have to say that I'm glad I did; otherwise, I may never have learned of Frédéric Fekkai's Winter Anti-Static Weightless Mist. One of my co-workers keeps a bottle in her desk drawer to keep her own winter hair woes under control and was generous enough to let me test it out.

So what's the secret of this seemingly magic hair potion? Fekkai uses organic salt to neutralize the static charge and soften the surface of the hair, and a few spritzes is really all you need to get the job done. The mist has a light coconut scent (or so I've been told--my olfactory system is a total failure) that's subtle yet reminiscent of warmer, sunnier days (sigh). Believe me, YOU NEED THIS. Winter hair woes: gone! Just like that.


Special thanks to Deb for sharing her hair-care secret with me!

Image: Winter Anti-Static Weightless Mist by Frederic Fekkai $15, image thanks to FabSugar (www.fabsugar.com).

Episode 6, The Verdict: Loving Lively

Last week, I dared to ask you about Blake Lively's hair: love it or loathe it? Well, according to the New York Times article published earlier this month, a Google search of “Blake Lively Hair” produces 713,000 results, many of them “how to’s.” So maybe it was a stupid question, seeing that not one of you dared to utter the word "loathe." When it comes to this stunning gossip girl, we are clearly head-over-heels for her hair.

How to get the lovely Lively look is another story. The Times called her hair an exercise in studied dishevelment, which couldn't be more accurate. Translation: she manages to look like she rolled out of bed totally ready for the runway, a seemingly impossible feat. When it comes to copping her style, most of us are missing one element: the color, the length, the texture, the stylist... One of my friends has a head full of gorgeous blonde hair, but it defies her efforts to make it tussle. Another friend is brunette (like me), begging the question: can you have the hair without being a Blake-blonde?

Apparently, Jennifer Johnson, Miss Lively's stylist on the set of Gossip Girl, creates Blake's signature bedhead glam by letting her hair dry in a simple chignon. Of course, if you're not Serena van der Woodsen, I'm guessing you don't have time to wait for your hair to dry--especially when it's knotted in a chignon. A quick DIY tussle technique that I like to use is, after using a curling iron to make a few big, loose curls, I gently tease my hair at the roots with a comb. Then, I flip my hair upside down and spritz with a light holding spray. I may not be blonde, and I'm certainly no stylist--but I can tussle with the best of 'em.

Though it would be far easier to be Blake Lively, her luscious locks are actually within reach. Such is the beauty (literally) of that "All-American" look. As John Barrett, whose hair salon is located above Bergdorf Goodman in Manhattan (sigh!), said to the Times, It looks accidental, but actually it takes work. For a fashionista?--Please! It's all in a day's work.

Quotes and information from: A 'Gossip Girl' Look, Pronto! by Sarah Maslin Nir, from the New York Times on November 10, 2009. To read the full article, click here. Images, in order of appearance: (1) Blake Lively W Magazine Cover, photo thanks to Gossip Girl Insider (www.gossipgirlinsider.com); (2) Blake Lively, photo from Buzz Sugar (online at http://xoxo-gossip-girl.buzzsugar.com/).

Love It or Loathe It? Episode 6: Blake Lively Hair

Happy Monday, dearest fashionista friends! Once again, your fashion expertise is needed for another episode of Love It or Loathe It? here at She's Come Unheeled. The issue? Hair, something we fashionistas take very, very seriously.

More specifically... A recent New York Times article suggested that Blake Lively's hair is the new "Rachel," the Jennifer Aniston inspired 'do that took salons by storm during the days of Friends (sigh). Well, move over, Rachel! These days, Blake Lively's long, luscious locks seem to be the most coveted. According to the Times, everyone wants Blake's "extra long, ultra-shiny blond with a mussed-up tussle frolicking through the ends." The question for you, my lovelies: IS IT TRUE?

Blake Lively Hair:

Do you love/want it or loathe it?--and why?

Send me an email or post your comments! The verdict will be delivered when She's Come Unheeled returns after Thanksgiving.

Happy holidays, dear ones--and as always, thank you!

XOXO,
Lolly


Images, in order of appearance: (1) Blake Lively and Leighton Meester, as Serena van der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf on the CW's Gossip Girl, photo thanks to Gossip Girl Insider (www.gossipgirlinsider.com); (2) Blake Lively, photo thanks to http://fashionfeen.files.wordpress.com.

Coming To A Head

In true Oberlin style, I was sitting in my afternoon dance class (which is unusual, seeing that we are usually moving!), Improvisation, which today was merged with the Collaborative Investigations class. Our purpose? To listen to Pulitzer-prize winning composer David Lang advise us on the collaborative and creative process. As I looked around the dance studio, I observed the mix of students: dancers from my class, as well as a blend of composers and musicians from the Conservatory and dance majors from the College working on projects together within the Collaborative Investigations class. It was, to say the least, a very interesting fashion mix, to be sure--from leotards to Prada loafers.

Among the sea of students, I was struck by a girl wearing the infamous forehead headband. My memory was immediately jogged, recalling London from America's Next Top Model Cycle 12, who was always sporting her headband across her forehead (much to Tyra's chagrin). Every pannel, Tyra would criticize London for the headband, but it would always come back. And I liked London! She posed well--if not fantastically--for pictures, and she was a pretty girl who believed in the good in people and thought it was kind of crazy that they chased her off one week for diet and weight issues. But I digress...

So it was this very "London" style choice that today left me contemplating... Sure, we wear belts to emphasize our waists, and use hems to accentuate other features. And of course, we wear bracelets on our wrists and necklaces too--so why not something on our foreheads? After all, the forehead is like the center of the chain, a vessel for the very minds that make us the strong, thoughtful women that we are. It's like saying, "Hey. Look right here. See what this is? Yeah, it's pretty great."

As far as celebrities go, Nicole Richie and MK have been spotted wearing the (fore)headband, a true testament to today's Boho-Hollywood feel. Relinquishing control of clothing and sporting less structured garments and hairstyles speaks to fashion's hopefully growing laissez-faire attitude, thus allowing style to develop, rather than be dictated. Always a joy to see.

The verdict for the everday girl: I think it's all too easy to make a mistake--too probable that your hair might bunch up on top (eew), or that the band could leave unsightly imprint lines. But for the goddesses of fierce among us, I say: go forth. Channel your inner Helen of Troy and draw attention to the strength and wonder of that pretty little head.

Images, in order of appearance: (1) ANTM's London, Cycle 12 (community.livejournal.com/topmodel/2403512.html); (2) London again, appearing on America's Next Top Model ( metanorn.kokidokom.net/2009/03/goddess-of-fierce/); (3) Nicole Richie and Mary Kate Olson sporting forehead headbands (http://stylenews.peoplestylewatch.com/2006/08/25/forehead-bands/).

ban.do--Puts Blair Waldorf to Shame

Ahhh, autumn! Hot apple cider, New England foliage, finally getting to wear boots again, and--OMGG!--Gossip Girl is back on. I may be twenty-six, but that doesn't mean I can't find guilty pleasure in the fictional lives of Manhattan's teenage elite. Serena van der Woodsen, Dan Humphrey, Blair Waldorf... And how do I love thee, Miss Waldorf? Let me count thy headbands...

As a girl with an unhealthy arsenal of my own power headbands, I can identify with Blair Waldorf--and the source of her conniving powers of manipulation. Obviously, Dan had no idea what he was talking about when he suggested that headbands have no place in college. I am walking proof that headbands have an important role in college, the workplace, and beyond. However, I have a sneaking suspicion that New York's Queen B doesn't make it out to the west coast very often, and so I can do her one better. My happy online discovery of ban.do puts Blair Waldorf to shame! Imagine.

Born of two LA stylists in 2008, ban.do is an empire of gorgeous headbands--as well as collars, corsages, and belts that define "wearable art." Despite their So-Cal studio location, their line lacks even a hint of the LA hipster vibe. Rather, working with classic materials like feathers, velvet, rhinestones, and silk, ban.do is the ultimate in elegance. They even have a special selection of delicate headpieces for blushing brides who wish to channel a bygone age.

With so many striking pieces to choose from, I find myself rather indecisive. But you know that I'm a sucker for feathers and sparkle and satin (oh my!), which is why I'm leaning towards the Vintage Cover Girl. This thin satin headband boasts a delicate cluster of peacock feathers, neatly fanning out from a vintage rhinestone brooch. It's exactly the kind of statement headpiece that any girl should have in her collection.

Yet, if handbands aren't your thing, all of the power of a Queen B can be yours with the likes of ban.do's Gracie Corsage or the Aristocrat Collar. I mean, hello!--how much more powerfully prep can you possibly get? And to think: Georgina puts so much effort into shaming Blair, when all she really needed to do was shop ban.do!

Images, in order of appearance: Leighton Meester as Gossip Girl's Blair Waldorf, photo from In Style (http://www.instyle.com/); (2) Vintage Cover Girl $200, headband by ban.do (online at www.shopbando.com); (3) Aristocrat Collar $165, also by ban.do.

Dispatch from Across the Pond

As a newly minted expat freshly arrived in the British Isles for a year of graduate study, I've spent the past few weeks constantly exploring my new environs. I've extensively checked out everything from grocery stores to open air markets and major shopping thoroughfares, and have been thoroughly distracted from countless tasks by the constant parade of fascinating people ripe for the watching- especially the slew of stylish ladies.

In the two weeks since I've arrived in London, I've concluded- conclusively- that there is one universal truth about these British girls: they are so, way, vastly much cooler than I am and will or can ever be. Its like there is some sort of genetic variant, some unlikely mutation affecting every single female between the ages of approximately 12 and 50, at which point style appears to entirely drop off.

I think it would be impossible for me to accurately capture, chronicle, or assess the characteristics that distinguish and define these incredibly creative, clever, and genius creatures (sensory overload, inadequate adjectives, and a general lack of fluency in the requisite vocabulary); suffice to say that the breadth of style options is seemingly boundless. These girls are peerless- AND fearless- in their inventiveness. Unlike in New York City, where I've spent the majority of the past ten years, London ladies are not universally decked out in a uniform, TBD each season (when I left, rompers, bangs, hipster glasses, and Keds were fairly de rigeur). There's a greater diversity of options. There are also at least two distinct (and distinctly awesome) categories of chic: professional women dressed for work, and what I'll call street style- your average 20-something woman decked out for the rest of life (Or maybe she's going to work- who am I to say?).

With all qualifications now on the record, here are five things I've noticed so far:

1. Steal Clothes

This approach is a perennial favorite- raid a boy's closet. A lot of the fall trends suggest co-opting more traditionally masculine styles- oxfords, wingtip shoes, plaids, sharply tailored clothes, even the semi-ubiquitous pegged trousers have a hint of man-tailoredness to them. Taking it one step beyond boyfriend blazers and slouchy t-shirts, I've seen girls here rocking everything from boy's shoes to boys sweatpants to ties and suspenders. There's something distinctly feminine about wearing at least a single piece of clothing that is vastly oversized.

2. Mess Up Your Hair

I am crazy about London hair. The heavy bang has been a staple of New York coiffure for at least a year and a half, and its a trend that is going strong here as well. However, other options abound. These ladies know how to tease the bejesus out of their hair. Side braids are absolutely everywhere, but really messy and disheveled ones. Big, almost frizzy buns are also all over the place. And fancy Amy Winehouse-style beehives (complete with those amazing cat eyes, natch) pepper the High Street crowds.

3. Wear Flats

As a major lover of shoes, I've long held the belief that all cosmopolitan creatures love heels. The higher the heel, the sharper, the pointier, the more obscene, the better. I have had a major revelation in the past fourteen days, and that revelation is that London is a city of flats. Ballet flats, Chucks, Docs, flat boots, mocassins, pointy toed flats- these women walk everywhere and for once, their footwear reflects the adage of form following function. But they absolutely don't compromise on style; I've made endless lists practically every day of enviable and unique heelless options. Brits know how to make a hot flat, which is good, because I have a lengthy daily commute ahead of me- on foot.

4. Tights and Leggings

One major look I've noticed everywhere I go has been the very short cutoffs over tights, a nod to the days of grunge if there ever was one. When I started to notice the frequency of this ensemble, I started to pay closer attention to legs, and I have decided that London is OBSESSED with black leggings. I think this must be particularly marked, because in New York you have to practically climb a tree in Central Park to avoid falling over six black-legged girls, but it seems absolutely universal here. Crazy tights- in colors and patterns- are also in abundant evidence. This will undoubtedly become very welcome shortly, when it gets cold and wet for eight months.

5. Go Crazy

I follow some really great street style blogs. When I stop to think about what looks jump out at the photographers, and to think about what captivates my attention either in a look on a blog or on a woman on the street, I've started to realize that the most compelling looks are often the wildest. Think striped minidress with bright tights and a different bright tone of shoe. Think giant hair, giant glasses, fur coat, and leggings. Think wifebeater and giant silk harem pants. Think color, bold shapes, mixing of patterns; think breaking rules. What I am drawn to is a redefinition of rules, permutations of pieces that I would never in a million years have considered. London ladies are not afraid to take major style risks, to try the unexpected, to wear extremely cutting edge clothes- and to wear them with confidence and joy. There's an artistry and a bit of defiance about London style, and it makes the girls more remarkable and their clothes more interesting. Like they say, fake it till you make it. Or in this case, fake it till someone takes your photo and puts it on a blog and calls you cool.

I will keep taking notes and will report back as soon as I have more cohesive or prescriptive thoughts to offer. In the meantime, five shots of London street style- the hair series- for your enjoyment. Off to speculate about the Queen's hat collection. Cheerio!

Images: All photographs by Sarah M. Barton.

Covet It: Let Your Hair Down

My lovely and amazing mother was born with stick straight hair--the kind that I will never have, despite my best efforts with a flat iron. My sister has beautiful curls, which are a soft nutmeg color, flecked with gold. My hair is somewhere in between: not quite unruly enough to be curly or obedient enough to be straight. And so I covet, while alternating between a flat iron and a curling iron every morning. Do we all want what we can't have?

As for the fashionistas who were bold enough to take my survey, I was interested to note that there were absolutely no overlaps in your coveting. Clearly we are a different breed; like snowflakes, no two fashionistas are alike! Though your unique (hair)style sensibilities put the ix-nay on my plan to do a "top five" list, I did want to share some inspiration. So let's let our hair down, shall we? Without further a'do (pun totally intended, obvi!), allow me to introduce five from the coveted crowd:

1.) Victoria Beckham: Jen loves Victoria's oh-so-posh straight a-line bob. Of course, so does Katie Holmes.

2.) Mary Kate: Chloe hearts Mary Kate's hair--especially when wavy.

3.) Mad Men's Joan Holloway: Suz covets Joan's perfect hair/clothes/accessories. Oh, for a day in those power pumps!

4.) Gisele Bündchen: Annie is just a tad bitter about Gisele's perfect wave.

5.) Vanessa Hudgens: Annie Rose is all about Vanessa's fabulous hair, plus/minus the pricey extensions.

As for me, I've made it no secret that Jennifer Aniston's locks are the equivalent to a happily ever after (though a Chanel handbag wouldn't hurt either--and my birthday is just around the corner). I love her carefully crafted color and the way--whether straight, wavy, up, or down--her hair always looks perfectly polished. Over the weekend, I gave my best effort in trying to convince my husband that I should color my hair like Jen's, but he was able to convince me that he's all about the brunette. So for now I'll stick with what my mama gave me, at least in the color department. But perfect and polished style? That's on my "to do" list. Stay tuned.

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Victoria Beckham, photo from Make Me Heal (http://www.makemeheal.com/); (2) Mary Kate Olsen, photo thanks to another blogstar(http://luffisadrug.blogspot.com); (3) Joan Holloway on Mad Men, photo courtesy of the Budget Fashion Report (http://www.budgetfashionreport.com/); (4) Gisele Bündchen, photo courtesy of Celebrity Hair Fashion Blog (http://celebrity-hair-fashion.blogspot.com/); (5) Vanessa Hudgens, photo courtesy of Shopping Lifestyle (http://www.shoppinglifestyle.com/); (6) Jennifer Aniston, photo from Hollywood Crap (http://hollywoodcrap.com/).

Let's Get Nautical!

Though it's hard to believe that August is here, the calendar doesn't lie--and so I have to admit that the last days of summer are upon us. What does this mean for summer fashion? Well, we must embrace it while we can! After all, I don't have to remind you that we don't wear white after Labor Day, do I? Rules are rules!

Probably my favorite summer trend is nautical style. After conversing with my sister (who also happens to be preparing for a semester at sea--so she should know), we decided the key to nautical-done-right is that you shouldn't look like you belong on a boat--but definitely by the ocean. While I'm pretty much a sucker for anything with anchors, Annie leans more towards blue and white stripes and maritime-inspired jewelry pieces.

So, darling fashionista friends, the time has come: let's get nautical! The following are my top five nautical-inspired picks (in no particular order):

1.) Swimming Starfish Bikini Bottom: A summer fashion "must" is mismatched swimwear. I love swapping out bathing suit bottoms in different patterns, prints, and bold colors. You can pair them all with a solid color top and magically have a million different bathing suits!

2.) Nautical Espadrilles: If you don't have a pair of espadrilles, then now is the time to jump on the bandwagon. I love the Vanna Shoe from Kate Spade, which adds a maritime twist to the more traditional espadrille style. It's all in the details, which includes sailor stripe lining and rope lacing--because who doesn't want to take their espadrilles boating?

3.) Yacht Club Vintage Button Bobby Pins: Like I said, I'm a sucker for anything involving anchors so--obvi--I'm obsessed with these cute retro bobby pins. On a boat? Use these nautical-themed hairpins to avoid a hair crisis. On dry land? No worries, you can still be sailor chic.

4.) Recycled Sail Tote Bag: Though I love designer handbags as much as the next girl, sometimes utility comes first. This bag combines function with fashion, repurposing an actual sail into a tote bag. Feeling lucky? This one features lucky number seven in red.

5.) Wish on a Sand Dollar: Some people wish on stars, but fashionistas take no chances when it comes to wish-making. From Dogeared's Make a Wish collection comes this delicate bracelet, featuring a sterling silver sand dollar on turquoise thread.

You're smelling the ocean just looking at these maritime-inspired items, admit it! As with any easily-exploited trend, subtlety is the name of the game when it comes to the nautical look. As Annie so aptly put it, "It should be just enough so that when people see how relaxed--yet put together--you look, they want to go to the ocean!" So, how about it? Are you ready to get nautical?

Images, in order of appearance: (1) Photo of the Ocracoke Island Light House on Ocracoke Island, NC, taken by me; (2) Swimming Starfish Bikini Bottom, on sale for $29.99, from J. Crew (http://www.jcrew.com/); (3) Vanna Shoe, on sale for $146, by Kate Spade (http://www.katespade.com/); (4) Yacht Club Vintage Button Bobby Pins
$10, by Strungoutandwired, available online from Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5409913); (5) "Red Number 7" $75 by Reiter8, also from Etsy (www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5074317); (6) Dogeared Make A Wish Bracelet
with sterling silver sand dollar on turquoise $26, by Dogeared (http://www.dogeared.com/); (7) Harbor of Dubrovnik, Croatia, photo also by me.