Stylewise by Debra

The Vanity... Oganizing Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Thu, 16 May 2013 19:06:00 +0000

Hello my lovelies!!

Do you happen to have the same problem I do? Your trusted vanity, who holds all of your most precious things, is full to the point of overflowing? Or am I the only one?

I started nosing around on www.pinterest.com to get some organizing ideas to help me sort out my mess. Here are some pretty and fun ways I found to help get me back on track. See if you don't catch the bug to organize as well!!

The romantic girl who admires Coco Chanel.

A gallery.

Lovely to behold...

My favorite because as you know I am a girlie girl.

A very clever use of vintage drawers. How unique is this?!

Classy.

Tre chic!!

Tiered. Who knew there was another use for these things!?

Now that you've been inspired and your vanity is all organized take some time for yourself and spritz on your favorite scent to refresh yourself. Don't you feel better already?

All photos downloaded from pinterest with the exception of the top & bottom photos which I found online.

Monday Musings...It's a Party Darlings!!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Mon, 13 May 2013 21:41:00 +0000

It's a Party Darlings!! So break out your finery...baubles by Tiffany!! Meow!!

Hello my darlings!!

I am on such a high knowing that in only two short days I will be seeing the Great Gatsby!! And since I am so excited about this event, one of my best girlfriends & I decided it would be fun to dress up & really make it a night to remember. So I've been searching the internet on some pretty hair tutorials and such & I found this one that I think is so exceptional I just HAD to share it with you.

This tutorial is owned and made by Lauren Reeser, the owner of American Duchess, a lovely blog that she created in order to share and educate those who have a love for historical costuming. Please drop by her blog...www.AmericanDuchess.blogspot.com.


Doesn't Daisy look just perfect?! What a glamour puss!!

So I was running all around looking for a pretty headband that I could wear. And you know I just couldn't find anything as stunning as the one here worn by Carey Mulligan. I decided I'd either make one with some ribbon & a brooch or just wear one I already own.

Does anyone see the spring/summer fashion trend in the picture above?! That's right my beauties!! The head scarf is oh so important this summer. And lucky for me I own gobs of them. None of which I will be wearing to the movie. Perhaps the next day in honor of the night?!

The real 20's glamour girl Billie Dove.

Check out this stylish head wrap!! Is it a hat or is it a combination of scarves held together by a brooch? You decide. Perhaps this could be another fun look to try with our headscarves this season?


Amazingly beautiful!!

Would you ladies try marcel waves? They seem so hard to me. I am going to try a glamorous look with some curlers. I have bangs so it won't look anything like this. but I will take lots of photos to share with you all. So how are you celebrating for the movie of the century?!

The highly anticipated Gatsby!!

Home Sweet Home

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Thu, 09 May 2013 02:41:00 +0000

Not my home. Lol! But I felt this photo was very warm & welcoming.

Hello lovelies!!!

We had a fantastic time away from home. We got to tour Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, run into the ocean at Virginia Beach (although the water was so cool that day that I quickly hightailed it back into the warm sand. Ha ha!!), we visited the Edgar Cacey Museum (the second most famous psychic). We enjoyed hanging out with our tea friends at Discover Teas. Check them out at www.discoverteas.com. They have some of THE freshest teas I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying. Also, went to a farmers market ( we loaded up on local yummies!!) and a flea market where I bought the most unusual ring from the 1930s. More on that in another post. All in all, it was so nice to get away, but coming home is lovely as well. My purr baby Ashe was happy to give me lots of love and Oscar, my shell baby ( he's our tortoise!), gave his "mom" some hugs. I missed you all so I am very happy to be here with you once again. So get ready for a new post soon!!!

Xo!!
Debra

Holiday, Celebrate!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:15:00 +0000

Can we use a holiday?

Hello my lovelies!!

As you know, I like to keep my space a positive place. But recent events really have me blue. I am fine I assure you. It's just the ups and downs of what we call life. Thankfully I am taking a holiday. Not far away, but a little getaway with my handsome hubby should do just the trick to uplift my spirit. :)

I will not be able to write a new post before we head out tomorrow, but I will check in periodically & visit your blogs to see what exciting things are happening with you.

Thanks for always being my friends and supporters. Much Affection!!!

Debra

Celebrate the Earth!!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 18:12:00 +0000

A walk in serenity.

Hello lovelies!!

This post is going to be a little off topic. As you know yesterday was Earth Day but can we take it a step further? Why not encourage Earth Week, Month or Year? Why can't it be Earth Day Every day?!

I believe it is important to take care of the Earth. I mean, we've only been given one. Why not care for her so that future generations can enjoy her as well.

I try to do my part by always recycling. I walk to the corner store. Take the bus to work. I pick up litter & properly dispose of it. Just simple things really, but I feel like I am contributing and that feels good.

I believe wind and solar power are the future.

You can help out in the simplest of ways such as planting a tree or some flowers. Trees help clean our air and shade us on hot summer days. They also protect us from wind and break down noise levels. Planting wild flowers or flowers local to your area help others enjoy what nature always intended. My neighbors love to see what new plants I will add to my yard every spring.

A beautiful view!!

When you travel take in eco tours. You can even go to a local park to enjoy some time. Hike, bike or just walk in nature. I always feel so refreshed after spending time in the great outdoors.

Tranquility...

Let's keep beaches safe from harmful chemicals and debri. Always clean up after yourself. Remember what we put into our oceans, rivers and streams can affect not only sea creatures but us as well.

Please protect the Earth for us too.

Let's be kind to the animal world too. Animals are precious and add beauty to our world. Treat them with respect.

Let's all do our part. Please share how you are helping take care of Mother Earth...

Super Models Revisited

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 19:33:00 +0000

The original Super Models!!

Does anyone remember all of the great Super Models of the late 80's and early 90's?! You know who I'm talking about...Linda Evanglista, Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, Tatiana Petitiz, Paulina Porizkova and Claudia Schiffer?

Back in the day when I was a lot younger (don't judge ladies!!), I admired all of these beautiful women. To me, they represented a world that at that time I only dreamed of entering. The wild & wonderful world of fashion.

The beautiful Paulina

Paulina Porizkava was my first huge super model crush. She had it all. I remember plastering my bedroom door with photos of her from my favorite fashion magazines. Yes, I was a magazine junkie even then.

Cindy Crawford, girl next door

Cindy paved the way for today's models. She was the very first model with a beauty mark to be embraced by the fashion industry. Today agents scout for models that have their own unique signature.

An issue of Italian Vogue

Classic Christy

Christy Turlington was a classic beauty. And she still is! I have always loved the shape of her eyebrows. Aren't they amazing?! Today, Ms. Turlington is a health nut. I love this!! She is huge into yoga and encourages fitness.

Tatiana Petitz

What can we say about Tatiana? She was the first model that I recognized as a first name only model. Who didn't know Tatiana?! She always seemed a bit of a rebel to me and so I loved her like no other.

Linda E.

Linda Evangelista was, and probaly still is, the most memorable Super Model of the 90s. I think she graced more covers and represented so more brands than the others. I never tire of looking at her beautiful face.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell was the first really successful African American super model. With her gorgeous skintone and penetrating eyes, you can see why she ruled the runway as well as the glossies.

Claudia Schiffer

Who can forget the beautiful Claudia Schiffer, THE face of Guess?! I actually did get to meet her when I was attending the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and taking fashion courses. It was such a delight!! I still have her autograph somewhere.

Super Models FOREVER!!

Which Super Model is your favorite?!

Spring Has Sprung!!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:56:00 +0000

Hello my lovelies!! Spring has finally returned and with it the first of many flowers awakening...the tulips have popped up out of the ground, as well as my lilies. They are still just foliage at this point but isn't it exciting?! To get you in the mood for some warmer weather and inspire you to take in some outdoor activities I am sending you on a photo journey.

A lovely array of colors!

Such pretty floral shorts and pastel polka dotted blouse. Dreamy!

Karlie!! Love the sweet bowler with the yellow flowers.

A healthy picnic lunch. Yummy!

A stroll through the cherry blossoms.

This is the exact porch swing I have only mine is painted a brown color!!

Cherry blossom festival in Japan.

I couldn't wait for the temperature to warm up so that I could get back outside and spend time in my gardens. I already started pulling weeds & I've swept the front porch so that I can sit back outside on my hanging swing again with a good book and a lemonade.

How will you be celebrating the season?!

Gatsby Fever

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Sat, 06 Apr 2013 20:37:00 +0000

The Great Gatsby Trailer by Warner Brothers

Does anyone else have Gatsby Fever?! I never read the book...amazing, I know...but I'm really excited to see this flick as I love period films. The sets and the costumes look fantastic! I simply can not wait to see this film. In the meantime, I thought I would share some Gatsby inspired images with you. Enjoy!!

Love the color of Katy Perry's gown!!

Sept. 2011 Vogue spread

Gabriele "Coco" Chanel, the epitome of the independent woman of the 1920s.

A beautiful ombre beaded gown.

Deco inspired bibbed necklace.

Louise Brooks and her infamous bobbed hair.

Gorgeous filagree ring.

20's dress by Crush Vintage on etsy.com

Love this beaded bag!

Marcel waves

These pretty ladies captured the spirit of the roaring 20s perfectly.

Spring 2013 Nails

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 01:48:00 +0000

Spring is in the air...um, maybe...and I thought it would be fun to share some of my favorite spring nail trends with you ladies. It seems that nails went from nearly nude to in your face. Lol! I really like the variety for spring.


Glittery nails still rule both the runway and the real world.

Color blocked, or two toned nails like these, look fab!

Gingham anyone? Reminds me of Kate Spade.

Beautiful textured nails. Need to try this mani.

Dripping nails will make you look (and feel!) like the rockstar you are.

Pearly or metallic nails can be ladylike.

LOVE this black and white nail art! Wouldn't it have looked terrific on the Chanel models?!

Such a fresh take on the nude nail. She's kissed with a touch of poppy for spring.

Which nails would you try?!

Guest Post at Coco et vie en rose!!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 01:05:00 +0000

Check out www.elegantminerals.com

Hello lovelies!!

Just wanted to share that my dear friend Coco from et vie en rose has posted my natural beauty review of Elegant Minerals Eye Shadows on her blog. Please take a peek and let her know you were there. Coco is a really wonderful person. She's so inspirational. And I know you will love getting to know her. Go now to check it out!!

pinktopping.blogspot.com/2013/03/naturally-beautiful-guest-post-by.html

Fab Friday!!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 18:19:00 +0000

It's Friday and time to celebrate yet another week of work is almost complete. Here's to the weekend my lovelies!!

Today you can follow me as I link up with Sherry from The Life of The Party!! Show some love and follow along!!

www.thelifeoftheparty.com

I will be guest posting with the lovely Coco at her blog Coco et La Vie en Rose. Can't wait to share this with you.

Happy Friday!!

How to Wear a Maxi Dress if You are Petite

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 17:18:00 +0000

Petite beauty Nicole Richie in a stunning floral maxi dress

Has anyone else been seeing maxi dresses in your favorite shops? I have and I wondered how a petite woman like myself could carry off this comfortable yet stylish look. I drew my inspiration from petite celebrity Nicole Richie. At 5"1" this petite beauty knows how to wear this look without overwhelming her tiny frame.

The ideal length of a maxi should fall somewhere between the top of the ankle and the top of the foot. Remember that you are creating a long horizontal line giving you the illusion of height.

Look for a clean, structured dress that hugs your curves. A loose flowing maxi will only add bulk to a petite frame.

Asos provides lovely maxi dresses for the petite woman.

Petites are lucky in the fact that we can get away with a printed or solid maxi. Just remember to keep your print small. Stripes and florals should be appropriate to your frame.

This stunning solid maxi dress, also from asos, highlights the waist.

Choose a vneck maxi to give the illusion of height as well as emphasize your pretty face.


Love this robin's egg blue maxi on Miranda Kerr.

Notice how Miranda Kerr's wrapped maxi dress emphasizes her delicate frame in the photo above.

Keep your accessories minimal when wearing your maxi. I think high heeled open toed sandals look stunning with a maxi that skims the top of your foot. A fun pair of earrings and bangles and your look is complete.

This structured maxi which hugs the body to compliment her curves can be found at asos.com

So now that you know petites can wear a comfy maxi dress, who is with me? And how will you wear this look?

Check out www.asos.com to see more of their lovely maxi dresses!!

New Look!!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 19:53:00 +0000

Happy Spring!!!

Hello my dear followers!!

I felt since spring is upon us it was time for a change here at Stylewise. I went with a softer background because I know there will be SO many vibrant pictures I will want to share with all of you. I hope you like this format. Is it easy to read? Does this background appeal to you? I wanted a cheerful yellow, but I couldn't find one I liked so for now this will do. Please let me know if you have any suggestions to make the blog better. Remember this is your blog too. So give me a shout out and let me know your ideas to make Stylewise even better! Thank you lovelies!!

Spring Trend: Black and White

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 19:29:00 +0000

As you learned from my last post, I have a love for haute couture and anything Chanel. Today I would like to share with you some of my favorite photos of some gorgeous black and white clothing as seen at the Spring 2013 Haute Couture Chanel fashion show. Feast your eyes ladies. This is how you do black and white!

The ladies promenading.

One of my favorites!

Delicate. Notice the sweet scalloped edge of the skirt.

Lacey strips. How clever!

The stark black ribbon against the white lace highlights a pretty collarbone.

The flowers were 3 dimensional. Check out these shoes as well.

The opera gloves chosen for this long gown give it an Edwardian feel.

These flouncy sleeves accentuate a tiny waist.

The ruching makes this LBD sexy and yet not over the top.

More of an ecru color, but I love the look. I think Coco would as well!

Make up and head pieces from the show. Don't these ladies look beautiful?!

A gorgeous lace tea gown.

I know. It's not black and white, but I loved the floral print of this gown and it's matching wrap.

I hope these photos inspired you to try this trend. I know I'm looking forward to at least one black & white dress for spring!!

Dior's Haute Couture Spring 2013 show

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 17:27:00 +0000

Hello lovelies!! As you know, I am a HUGE fan of haute couture. I guess that happened when I was a young woman flipping through every issue of Vogue I could get my hands on. I remember lying on my bed devouring each picture and description of the clothing wrapped around my favorite models: Linda Evangelista, Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, and Tatiana. Such wonderful memories. I dreamed of living in Paris and working at Chanel. Well, that didn't exactly work out. However, I am still here devouring each and every haute couture fashion show that's on the web. I felt this show by Dior was one of the most beautiful and wanted to share it with you. I hope this inspires you as much as it does me.

Much affection lovelies!!

Spring 2013 Hair Trends

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 19:32:00 +0000

Hey ladies!! I am all for new looks, not only with my clothing, but with hair as well. There were plenty of beautiful hair looks on the runways. There was the obvious sleek do and waves. Also a wet look. Then there was a rock princess kind of look going on but I'm not so sure about that one. So I passed some up in hopes of giving you the best of the best. I found some really great photos to share with you of some of MY favorite spring 2013 hair trends. Let me know which ones are your favorites!!

Low slung architectural loop at Gucci

Braided hair

Fringe!!

Head scarves. I predict this is going to be the hottest hair trend for spring through summer!

Girlie and retro at LV

No fuss hair. I love this messy bun.

Sleek low ponies and updos.

Ok. you knew there'd be at least one Karlie Kloss photo. Don't judge! Lol!

Pearls, pearls, pearls!!

While my hair may be short at the moment, I can always add a headscarf or some pearl bobbies. I can still fringe my bangs which happens to sound like a good idea....

Happy Friday!!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Fri, 08 Mar 2013 20:32:00 +0000

Happy Friday Everyone!!

I can't believe the week is nearly over. I've been very busy at work with a huge floor move. New spring merchandise = redressing mannequins and bust forms. But that's okay. It's a part of the work that I really enjoy. Making things beautiful.

I am considering adding some blog posts about natural/organic makeup and beauty. I myself use more natural products being a cancer survivor. That'll spook you into watching what you put in and on your body for sure!! Anyway, I was wondering what you, my faithful readers, think of this post idea. Would you be interested in reading posts of this nature? I value your opinions.

This week I am happy to announce that I linked up with Alison at Get Your Pretty On as well as Sherry from The Life of the Party. This is Sherry's first time hosting a link up so go join the party. I just met her and she's very sweet.

www.getyourprettyon.com

www.thelifeofthepartyblog.com

I wish you all a wonderful weekend spent enjoying your family and friends. Xo!!

My first guest post!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Wed, 06 Mar 2013 01:19:00 +0000

Hello lovelies! Please enjoy my first guest post courtesy of Ms. Vanessa Eves. This post is is about collecting vintage fashions. Hope you enjoy. Let me know if you liked the post and stay awhile with Vanessa and see some of her gorgeous floral designs. She is so talented. Ok. Go give my friend some love! www.vanessaeves.com

Accessory Trend:Metal belts

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 02:11:00 +0000

The metal belt trend is everywhere from runway to the red carpet. Both stylists and celebrities are enjoying this hot trend. And you can as well.


At the Zuhair Murad show.

Smashing worn with a peplum!

Why I like this trend? I like this trend because not only does it emphasize the waistline, but it allows the wearer to have a little fun as well. Worn with a gown it keeps the whole look a little less fussy. And shows a bit of the wearer's personality.

From winter...

This metal belt looks classy when worn with your overcoat. I love how it cinches the bulk of the coat to give you a cleaner silhouette.

...and into spring!

Wear your belt over a pleated skirt like the photo above.

Can be worn all the way into summer!

Take this look into summer by wearing it with a flowing maxi skirt and a tough metal cuff.

And lastly, try it for a sophisticated look over a special occasion dress.

How do you feel about this trend? Is it a PASS or KEEP? Let us know how you will try this hot look.

Blue & Green Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 11:00:00 +0000

Lately I have been inspired by such cool colors as blues and greens. Perhaps it's the idea of springs impending arrival or perhaps my ideas of a beach holiday. Whatever, I wanted to share some lovely images to inspire you are well.

A sweet blue & green mani with polka dots perfect for spring!

Rebirth!

A stunning gown to welcome the first blooms found at LaFemmeFashion.com.

A special touch

A stunning tablescape

A cozy bedroom to dream in.

Love this delicate dress drawing on this pendant.

The best way to awake is to the song of robins.

I hope you enjoyed these images. What colors are you inspired by during spring?

What I want now...an eShakti dress!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Fri, 01 Mar 2013 17:25:00 +0000

Fellow blogger and friend , Rebecca from Red Tag Chic Los Angeles, shared an outfit post yesterday that was so gorgeous it prompted me to check out eShakti.com.

What I loved about this company, other than their wonderful selection, was that you can customize their clothing to fit your particular needs. I was all over this as I am not only petite, but a skinny mini as well. Lol!

They had plenty of beautiful 50's inspired dresses that it was so hard to pick. But when I saw this poppy colored dress, it was amore!!

From the gathered cap sleeves to the delicate neckline, this dress screams of perfection!

I had it altered to a knee length so that I can wear it for any occasion. Then I started wondering... what accessories I am going to wear with it...?

These bowed kitten heels would keep it pretty and polished. (shoes are not mine. Just dreaming of them)

And then there is always jewelry. I think it might be best to keep it simple.


This sweet little charm bracelet would look adorable paired with my dress.What do you think about this combination?

Have you had any experiences with eShakti? Good or bad? Let's hear what you have to say ladies.

Linking up tonight with...

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 01:49:00 +0000

The dear Shanna of Because Shanna Said So

And sweet Alison at Get Your Pretty On

Thanks to both of these kind ladies for allowing me to meet new friends as well as grow my lil blog. You girls are super stars!! xoxo

Laser Cut Trend for Spring 2013

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 21:47:00 +0000

Have you seen any of the cool laser cut clothing and accessories that have hit the spring 2013 runways?! Well my friend, here's your chance to get up close and personal with this latest trend.


The detail on the capped sleeves makes a simple LBD sweet.

Love the pattern this sweet clutch!

I totally want this!! I would rock this look at a Toby Mac concert.

Love the wood on silver in this cuff.

This could be a staple in any girl's closet.


Why not finish with some cool booties?!

So ladies, tell me, do you think you will be wearing this trend this season?

Rain rain, go Away!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 20:20:00 +0000

Hello readers! Sorry to be away for so long. My hubby was down sick for a few days so I was playing nursemaid. And guess what?! The girl that doesn't catch colds...much...was overtaken by a cold/flu bug. Ugh...'Tis the season.

Onto the rain. Has it seriously been bringing you down too? Well stay with me as I show you some fun, new & ,best yet, eco-friendly ways to beat those grey clouds. I found the coolest rain wrap EVER! Yes, you read that right.

RainRaps were developed by an American company based in Virginia. The RAINRAP is a combination of a wrap AND a pashmina. LOVE! It's made of a light weight fabric that is both comfortable and durable. Water wicks away from the material so it's fast drying. I don't know about you, but I HATE getting wet about as much as a cat does. Lol! Wraps are double sided so it's like getting two for the price of one!! Yay!!


Black & grey combo for everyday wear.

Navy & turquoise. Yes please.

Bronze & gold. I would LOVE this one!!

Pink & orange for the adventuress.

Navy & avocado keeps it neutral.

All of the photos above are from the original collection which is only $48 USD! A bargain price!!Check out their latest designs or order an original at www.rainraps.com.

Do you find yourself completely miffed when your best umbrella becomes a tangled mess with one good burst of wind? Me too. So you gotta check out Brelli.

The Brelli company makes an earth friendly umbrella unlike the rest. The bamboo structure is hand carved in Thailand and the film canopy developed in the US. The most striking thing about this umbrella is not only that it can withstand up to 40mph wind gusts, but that unlike other umbrellas on the market, it's transparent canopy provides 99% UVA,UVB, & UVC sun protection. Amazing!!

The umbrella comes in clear, pink, grey, and printed and start at $66 USD.

Please visit their web site at www.thebrelli.com to learn more about the company & order yourself a luxury umbrella.

All photos owned by RAINRAPS and Brelli companies.

Now if I could only find a lovely rain boot as well...

Link Up Wed!

noreply@blogger.com (Debra) — Wed, 13 Feb 2013 13:56:00 +0000

Hey gang! Join me as I link up with Miss Alison today & don't forget to say hello and check out some fun new sites! http://getyourprettyon.com