The Modern Manicure

I remember when french manicures were "the thing" to do. Picking out polish at the nail salon was simple... pink and white! Fast forward to the present and we have a gazillion nail colors to choose from. The color of your nails have become as important as the color of shoes you wear! With nail art in the spotlight, the traditional pink and white manicure is taking a back row seat and creative color combinations are stealing the show. I decided to ditch my comfort zone and take a risk with the "modern manicure." I chose this gold and black combination. Surprisingly, I really like it! It has to be paired with the right outfit for it to work. But, it is a look that I would actually wear on occasion.

To achieve this look I used Essie's Good As Gold and OPI's Black Onyx. I love both of these nail polishes combined and on their own. All you need to do is apply 1-2  coats of gold and then apply the black polish to the tips.

So there you go, the "modern manicure!" I am looking forward to trying a few different color combinations. I think the next look will be a sheer, milky white nail with gold tips. What would you suggest?! Let me know what you have tried or what you would recommend for colors in the comments below. I look forward to hearing from you!

Happy Styling, Rebekah

How To Wear Dark Lipstick

One of Fall's hottest trends right now is dark lipstick. It is an ultra edgy look that if done right can look really beautiful. Today, I am going to share some tips on how to wear this look. Step 1: Exfoliate your lips. Dark lipstick enhances dry or cracked lips so you want to start off with a smooth surface.

Step 2: Apply chapstick. Let it sit for a few minutes, you don’t want to apply the lipstick to a fresh coat of chapstick because the color will run. During this time you could apply your face makeup. Remember to keep the eye makeup minimal. You want the lips to be the main attraction.

Step 3: Line and fill in your lips. Lipliner helps to keep your lipstick from bleeding. If the lipstick does bleed you can take a lip brush and apply some concealer around the lips.

Step 4:  Apply lipstick. You can either use a lip brush or apply directly from the tube.

If you want to gradually work your way up to wearing a bold, dark lip, you can apply your lipstick as a stain. You can easily achieve this look by applying your lipstick with your fingers.

Will YOU go bold with dark lips this Fall? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

* The lipstick pictured above is Revlon's Black Cherry.

Flower Beauty Review

I was thrilled when I heard Drew Barrymore was teaming up with Walmart to launch a new cosmetics line. I love the mission of Flower  which is to provide quality products that you would find in a high end store but, at a fraction of the price. A couple other perks are that all of the  products are made in the USA and they are never tested on animals. The entire line of Flower cosmetics is lovely. Everything from the advertisements to the white and rose gold packaging is beautifully done. I was equally impressed by the color line. The lipsticks, blushes, nail polishes, eyeshadows and liners have colors that are fresh and modern. There were so many products that I wanted to try, it was hard to choose. I decided to start off with four products. I chose two lipsticks and two nail polishes.

I fell in love with the promo poster of Drew Barrymore wearing the high shine lipstick in the color "Rosebud." It looked like a great Fall lipstick color so I decided to purchase it. Rosebud is a bold red lipstick that is rich and creamy with excellent color pay off. I would definitely recommend this color to add to your Fall lipstick collection.

The next lipstick that I purchased was So Gladiola. I have a weakness for coral lipstick so snagging this color was a no brainer for me.

So Gladiola is a matte coral lipstick. The color is fresh and modern and I love it for an everyday lipstick. The formula is a little drying since it is a matte lipstick. I suggest exfloliating and wearing a lip conditioner underneath it. Overall it is a really nice coral lipstick.

I had been wanting to build up my fall nail polish collection so I ended up purchasing Venus Fly Trap and April Showers.

I had been looking for the perfect burgundy nail polish and Venus Fly Trap is definitely a winner. I love the color. It needs at least two coats to achieve the color in the picture above.

April Showers is another excellent dark polish for Fall. In the store the color looked like a dark green color, but once I put the polish on it really is dark blue. In some lighting it actually looks black. Overall, I really like the color and will definitely be wearing it on a regular basis.

I am looking forward to trying out more of the Flower cosmetics line. Some of the products I am interested in trying are the cream eyeshadows, cream blushes, and eyeliners. I spotted some fun colors that I think would be great to incorporate into my daily beauty routine. To see more from Flower Cosmetics, you can find it here. Let me know what you think!

 Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Photography: Reagan Miura

The Drugstore Ten

Who doesn't love a good deal?! With cosmetics being so expensive these days, it is always satisfying to find quality products at a good price. Today, I am sharing ten of my drugstore favorites. Crest white strips have always been a drugstore staple that can be found in my beauty stash. They work especially well paired with their vivid white toothpaste.

Essie's Sand Tropez is my polish of choice when I want a natural manicure that will go with anything.

For a night out on the town, I love to wear Ardell's false lashes in 110. I use DUO lash adhesive so they don't budge, and finish the look with Loreal's Voluminous mascara.

Maybelline's Eye Studio gel liner is my pick for a drugstore liner. It has excellent color pay off, a great creamy texture, and glides on smooth. Elf's smokey eye pallette works incredibly well for being a mere $1.00. I use this pallette when I want to play up my eyes and add a dramatic effect. Revlon's lipstick in the shade Siren has received a lot of use from me this summer. It's a beautiful and bright, orangey- red color. Lastly, I daily reach for Rimmel's eye liner in white. I use it to line the inner rims of my eyes and  the inner corners. Their lip pencil in 049 Natural is a great nude shade that pairs nicely with many different lipstick colors.

It's always fun to try new beauty products at the Drugstore. At this price point, it makes it easy to try out different kinds of makeup that we may not normally try. What are some of your drugstore beauty favorites? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Photos by: Rebekah Miura

The Mix: Maximize Your Wardrobe

These 6 wardrobe staples are essentials to have in your closet this season. Denim, floral, stripes, and polka dots are all patterns that are excellent to use for mixing. Think of them as neutrals. These patterns can be incorporated into an outfit as accessories or they can be more of a focal point when worn as tops or bottoms. Get the most out of your wardrobe this season by taking time to mix patterns and try new outfit combinations. You may be surprised at the outfits you already have in your closet! Your friends will think you went on a shopping spree and your pocketbook will thank you!  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Striped Shirt (similar) | Denim Shirt | Polka Dot Shirt (similar) | Floral Skirt | Red Pants (similar)

Necklaces (left to right): 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 (similar)

How to Style A Maxi Skirt Two Ways: Day To Night

Maxi skirts are great foundational piece to have in your wardrobe. They are versatile skirts that can be worn day or night. This single skirt can be the foundation for several outfits. Today, I'll highlight two looks using the same maxi skirt and tank top combination. The first is a daytime look. This outfit is perfect for lunch with friends, shopping, or sightseeing. The lightweight, airiness of the skirt keeps you cool and unscathed from the heat, the laid back accessories keep it comfy and casual, yet stylish.

The second look is a classy evening ensemble. Sandals are swapped out for a pair of ankle strap heels, a chunky statement necklace replaces the light weight 3 strand necklace, a clutch takes the place of the straw tote, and a leather jacket is added for warmth and gives an edge to the outfit.

Taking an outfit from day to night does not have to be complicated. Jumping from one event to the next just got easier! The next time you have multiple engagements, try keeping a bag of accessories and a lightweight jacket in your car. Transitioning from daytime to nighttime is a cinch with just a few, simple accessory changes!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

The following are links to the outfits above:

Daytime look: Skirt | Tank Top | Belt | Shoes: Similar | Necklace: Similar | Purse: Similar | Sunglasses

Nighttime look: Jacket: Similar | Shoes | Necklace: Similar | Clutch: Similar

Trend Alert: Ankle Straps

Ankle straps are stealing the show this season and will continue to shine into the Fall. They are a sophisticated shoe that can be paired with both casual and dressy outfits. They look great worn with a pair of cropped pants here and a midi skirt here. The ankle strap elongates the leg and adds a polished look to an outfit. These shoes come in all different colors and patterns and are the perfect way to complete an outfit.  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

 Red Suede Sandal | Camel Sandals | Black  Ballerina Flats | Color Block Sandals

Black Ankle Cuff Pumps | Leopard Pumps

Rebekah's OOTD: Casual Chic

Oh, how I love a good pair of boyfriend jeans, a casual top, and heels! It is always fun to add an element of surprise to an outfit, such as a shiny statement necklace paired with a plain t-shirt or heels worn with torn jeans. Casual chic is definitely my cup of tea these days!

I am curious to know what your style is. Leave a comment below and let me know what looks you are loving this season!

 Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Links to outfit pictured above:

Sweatshirt (similar) | Jeans | Shoes | Purse (similar) | Necklace | Watch | Bracelet (similar) | Sunglasses

The Perfect Summer Hat

Fedora hats are all the rage this summer and for good reason! They have the ability to make the simplest of outfits instantly chic. You can wear them with just about any of your summer wardrobe staples: dresses, skirts, shorts, and pants. They also look great with a number of hairstyles, leave your hair down, put it in a side braid, or wear it in a low side bun. Fedoras are a no-fuss accessory that can be worn with so many different looks. For more style inspiration check out our Pinterest board here. If you have a favorite way to wear your fedora, let us know in the comments below!

Happy Styling

Rebekah

*Links to above images left to right.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5

Jewelry Crush

Who doesn't love a statement necklace?! They can take an ordinary outfit and make it extra-ordinary. I have searched high and low for necklaces like the 6 above and I was always left disappointed when I saw the price tag. That is until I met BaubleBar , a jewelry store based out of New York City, with an an on-line store that sells gorgeous, on-trend jewelry that happens to be reasonably priced too! The company offers advice on how to wear the latest jewelry trends, has a team of on-call stylists to assist customers with picking out the perfect accessories, and their site offers a gallery of pictures from people who have purchased the items showing how they styled them...genius! With free shipping and free returns BaubleBar is at the top of my list for on-line jewelry shopping!  

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*Links to above necklaces.

1 | 2 |  3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Summer Sequins

This summer, sequins are making their debut. This trend is proving that glamour isn't just reserved for the Holidays or red carpet events, it can be incorporated into the everyday outfit.  

1 | 2 | 3 (similar)

There are numerous ways to style sequin accessories and clothing. You can pair them with everything from distressed denim to leather! Sequin accessories can be worn day or night. They are the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.

1 | 2 | 3 

Sequin jackets look great dressed up or down. A popular way to style them is by pairing them with a graphic tee or striped shirt.

1| 2 | 3

Sequin pants add unexpected sparkle to an outfit. They really shine when they are paired with a blazer and heels.

Sequins are a trend that can carry us through summer right into the cooler months. No matter what season they are in, they always makes a statement.

What statement will you be making this summer? Will it include sequins? Let us know in the comments below. We look forward to hearing from you!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*The following are links to the top picture in this post.

jean shirt  (similar)| skirt | shoes | necklace

Rebekah's Top 4 Self-Tanners

Want a beautiful tan, but don't want to lay out for a gazillion hours or roast in a tanning bed? Self-tanners are a great way to get the look of being bronze without damaging your skin. The four following self-tanners are tried and true and will not leave you orange or streaky. Instead, you will be wishing you would have started sunless tanning a long time ago. St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse is my go-to self-tanner. It is a lightweight velvety mousse with a built in color guide that makes tan application easy and virtually goof proof. It is one of the few self-tanners that does not have a strong after smell. It gives a beautiful, rich, bronze tan. As with all self-tanners make sure you apply it using gloves! St. Tropez has a mitt that you can buy in addition to the self-tanner that works great.

Fake Bake Sunless Tanning Mousse is another favorite of mine. Like St. Tropez, it has a built in color guide so you can see exactly where you are applying your self-tanner. It is streak free and easy to apply. It also, boasts special organic ingredients which is always a plus!

I recommend a self-tanner that is made specifically for the face. Lancome Flash Bronzer is excellent. It gives your skin a radiant, sun-kissed glow.

Loreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Towelettes are a budget friendly, cheaper alternative to the above self-tanners. They are extremely easy to use and are great for travel.

Self-tanners are a quick and easy way to look like you just came back from a luxurious vacay in the Virgin Islands. They give you a beautiful bronze tan without exposing your skin to the sun's harmful rays. Be a bronzed beauty instantly with these all star self-tanners.

Happy Tanning!

Rebekah

Go Glam With Metallics

Metallics are a simple way to incorporate a little glitz into your everyday outfit. It can be as simple as adding a metallic clutch to your ensemble or going bold with a metallic pencil skirt.  

Shirt (similar) | Jeans (similar) | Necklace | Shoes (similar) | Purse

The key to wearing metallics is to think of them as neutrals. You can swap out your tan accessories for gold, silver, or even rose gold. They add depth and texture to an outfit and are the perfect way to turn a drab outfit into fab.

Will you go glam with Metallics this Summer? Let us know in the comments below, we look forward to hearing from you!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

*Metallic accessories above:

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

One Piece Bathing Suits: Summer 2013

One piece bathing suits are taking center stage this year. They are the “it” suits of the season. From classic to modern styles, you are sure to find a suit that fits your taste. Peplum is a style that is fun, flattering, and can suit many body shapes.

 1 | 2 | 3

Prints and patterns add a modern and playful twist.

 1 | 2 | 3

Florals add a soft and feminine flair that is fun for the summer.

1 | 2 

Classic suits never go out of style.

 1 | 2 | 3

Whatever statement you want to make poolside or beachside, you are are sure to make a splash in this year's endless array of bathing suit prints and styles. Whether you go bold with a geometric print or classic with a black halter, you are bound to hit a home run this Summer!

Summer 2013 Trend: Bright Matte Lips

Bright lips are a huge fashion statement this Summer. Fashionistas everywhere are trading in their standard nude lipsticks for bold fuchsias, pinks, and oranges. Celebrities are rocking this look on and off the red carpet. Emma Stone is a trendsetter who is regularly inspiring us with her bold lipstick choices. She is not afraid to take risks and she looks great!

The key to pulling off this fresh and modern look is to keep the eye makeup minimal. A neutral eye shadow with a slight winged liner, mascara, and a subtle cheek color, make  your lips the main attraction. If you want to branch out and try these celebrity looks, the below lipsticks are a great place to start.

Whether you are sporting a casual or dressy look, a bright lip is the perfect accessory this season. The next time you are looking to add a certain "je ne sais quoi" to an outfit, it can be as simple as applying the right shade of lipstick. Have fun rocking this bold and colorful trend!

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Pinks/Fuchsias:

MAC Candy Yum Yum, Nars Carthage, MAC Girl About Town, Maybelline Fuchsia Flash

Oranges:

Revlon Siren, Nars Heat Wave, MAC Morange, Maybelline Electric Orange

Target Finds: Under $30

Who doesn't love Target? I often call it my "happy place." It is where I can grab my Starbucks Cinnamon Dolce latte and head off to browse aisle after aisle of beauty, fashion and home decor. Target is trendy and affordable, a match made in heaven. Their slogan "Expect more. Pay less." is right on the money. It is a store that is constantly partnering with high end designers to  bring us cutting edge design on a budget. Here are 6 summer finds under $30 that can currently be found at Target.

Happy Styling,

Rebekah

Hat | Purse | Necklace |Eyeshadow | Dress | Shoes

Summer 2013 Accessories Guide

Summer has officially arrived! Here are five essential accessories that you want to invest in this season. 1. A fedora hat keeps you cool and stylish.

2. Sunglasses are instant glamour.

3. A colorful scarf keeps things fun and festive.

4. A beach bag keeps all of your essentials stylishly in one place.

5. Nail polish in a bright color adds the finishing touches to any summer outfit.

Have fun accessorizing this season! Take risks with color and accessories. Summer is all about bright color palettes and fun patterns.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Color Block Nail Art

Nail art is THE THING TO DO right now! If you spend anytime on Pinterest or Instagram, you will see countless images of nails decorated with everything from glitter to chevron patterns. You will also find an endless sea of DIY nail art tutorials. Nail art was all over the runway at New York Fashion Week and will be a top trend this Summer. To achieve the above look, you can either take the picture to your local nail salon and have them re-create it. Or you can do it your self!

Here is how you can re-create this look on your own:

1. Start by picking three colors. You will need one light shade for the base,  one medium shade, and one darker shade. The colors above were all OPI colors: “Sweetheart", “French Quarter For Your Thoughts" , and “Black Onyx.”
2. Paint on two coats of the lightest shade as a base.
3. Take the medium shade and sweep it from left to right across your nail.
4. Take the darkest shade and sweep it from left to right across your nail.
5. Paint on a top coat. And let your nails dry.

It takes a steady hand to do this. If this is too hard for you, tape strips can be cut and placed on the nail to serve as an outline to keep the lines straight. Make sure each coat of polish is dry before you put the tape strips on your nails!

Nail art adds a fun twist to your regular one color manicure. Have fun playing with different colors and patterns. Branch out and use nail art as a way to accessorize this season.

Happy Styling!

Rebekah

Photo by: Reagan Miura

Rebekah's Find Of The Week: The Triangle Necklace

I had been crushing on this Shopbop triangle necklace for a while, but I had never bought it because of its steep price tag. I could not justify spending $75 on a trend that may not last. This weekend, when I was at my local Forever 21, I found a similar necklace for a mere $5.80! So, of course I had to buy it!

You’ve got to love Forever 21 for their inexpensive finds. Now I get to try out this trend without diving deep into my pockets.

Happy bargain shopping!

Rebekah

DIY Chevron Knuckle Ring

Knuckle rings are a trend that I am absolutely LOVING right now! I have been seeing them all over Etsy and Pinterest. Recently, I was just about to pull the trigger on ordering some, when the thought crossed my mind, “why don’t you just make them yourself!” So…off to Michaels I went! Today, I am going to show you how simple it is to make these fun chevron knuckle rings. The supplies: 1. Wire cutters 2. Thin wire (16 or 18 gauge wire seems to work well)

Start by cutting off about 2-3 inches of wire.

Take the wire and bend it into a point. You can start off using your fingers to shape the wire into a chevron pattern.

You can also use the end of your wire cutters to help reinforce the shape.

Next place the wire on your finger at the height that you want it.

Wrap the wire around your finger and twist together.

You can use the end of your wire cutters to help mold them together. Be careful with the edges of the wire, they can be sharp. You can sand them down a bit with a nail filer to take off the sharp edges.

And you are finished!

Article by: Rebekah Miura Pictures by: Reagan Miura