SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Givenchy

Givenchy mules first debuted last year in New York Fashion Week on the Spring/Summer 2016 runway, where it caused that notorious Candice Swanepoel & other model’s fashion week fall.  Nonetheless, these Italian-made Givenchy mules are exquisitely beautiful, featuring a lizard-effect and smooth metallic leather.  Pair these with a colorful, monochromatic outfit to accentuate the silver heels.

Givenchy mesh-paneled metallic leather mules, $1,050, via Net-a-Porter

Givenchy mesh-paneled metallic leather mules, $1,050, via Net-a-Porter 

givenchy mules

givenchy mules

 

What do you think of these heels?  How would you style them?

xoxo

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Laurence Dacade

Laurence Dacade is known for having whimsical and unique prints in her designs.  The French designer’s philosophy is “There is no need to suffer for beauty”, and it is apparent in her comfortable shoe styles that are both fashionable & functional.

Check out these darling David Bowie -inspired booties.  If you’ve been following this blog for a while, you know that we are obsessed with Bowie’s style.  Wear them with oversized, worn-in denim and a sexy cropped top to balance out the bold style of the boots.  

And don’t forget red lipstick & some serious self-confidence.

Laurence Dacade Bowie paneled leather ankle boots, $960

Laurence Dacade Bowie paneled leather ankle boots, $960, via Net-a-Porter 

laurence dacade bowie boots

 

What do you think of these boots?  How would you style them?

xo, loves

Have a beautiful weekend!

The Ultimate Beauty Guide, From A-Z: The Letter B, decoded

b

 

A while back, Trends & Tribulations started the ABC’s of beauty to help educate readers on the many weird, bizarre, and overall unknown ingredients and products on the market.  We continue on this segment with the letter B.

 

BB CREAM

Image via uh supply

Image via uh supply

Essentially a supercharged foundation, this tinted “beauty balm” blends moisturizer, sunscreen, primer and foundation into a do-it-all complexion product.

BENZOYL PEROXIDE

Image via NYC Benzoyl Peroxide

Image via NYC Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl Peroxide is a bacteria-fighting ingredient found in skincare products to treat acne.  It’s made in the scientific laboratory by treating hydrogen peroxide with benzoyl chloride.  It is usually found in 2.5 to 10 percent concentrations in acne treatment products.

BETA HYDROXY ACID (BHA)

Paula's Choice BHA Spot Treatment, $43 for 0.3 oz.

Paula’s Choice BHA Spot Treatment, $43 for 0.3 oz., via Paula’s Choice

BHA is a oil-soluble substance that works by exfoliating deep into pores to make room for regeneration of new skin. It is generally less irritating than alpha hydroxy acid.  It works best for acne prone skin, since it is soluble in oil, vs. its counterpart, Alpha Hydroxy Acid (AHA), which is water-soluble.  It can make skin sensitive, so be sure to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen when using it (keep scrolling for more info).

BLACK TEA

Fresh Black Tea Age-Delay Traditions kit, $98, via Sephora

Fresh Black Tea Age-Delay Traditions kit, $98, via Sephora

A tea containing vitamins, (B2, C, E), minerals (magnesium, potassium, zinc), polyphenols and tannins.  vitamins (B2, C, E), minerals (magnesium, potassium, zinc), some essential oils, polyphenols and tannins.  Polyphenols are natural antioxidants that neutralize free radicals.  Tannins protect our bodies and skin from environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV radiation and are known to fight bacteria.

BIOTIN

Vibrance Biotin & MSM Capsules for Long Hair, $29.99, via Amazon

Vibrance Biotin & MSM Capsules for Long Hair, $29.99, via Amazon

Part of the B complex vitamin, also known as vitamin H, it aids in cell growth and production of fatty acids, promoting healthy hair, skin and nails.  It is found in products, but can also be taken in pill form.

BOTANICAL

Fig + Yarrow boasts botanical beauty products, via Fig + Yarrow

Fig + Yarrow boasts botanical beauty products, image via Fig + Yarrow

Botanical means plant-derived ingredients in skincare products, haircare and cosmetics.  The types of plants they originate from include herbs, roots, flowers, fruits, leaves or seeds.  They are most notable for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can benefit sensitive skin with rashes, breakouts, sunburn, eczema, redness, and uneven texture.  They are also beneficial to use post-procedure, whether that is a chemical peel, laser, or anything else.

BRIGHTENING

Image via Livingly

From left: StriVectin Instant Revitalizing Mask, $62, via StriVectin; Clinique even better Brightening Moisture Mask, $36.50, via SephoraShiseido White Lucent All Day Brightener Broad Spectrum SPF 22, $57, via Sephora, image via Livingly

“Brightening” is a term for products that reduce skin redness and uneven pigmentation, typically using ingredients like salicylic or kojic acid.

BROAD-SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN

image via SBA blog

Image via SBA blog

Product that protects against the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.  The SPF number essentially measures how much a sunscreen protects you from sunburn, which is caused solely by UVB rays.  UVA is a longer wavelength of sunlight & it consists of 95% of all ultraviolet radiation reaching the earth.  Therefore, a broad-spectrum sunscreen is an extremely important product to have to protect your skin from wrinkles and sun spots.

Image via LionessMagazine

Image via LionessMagazine

 

Do you have any other questions about products beginning with B?  Share in the comments section below!

xo

 

 

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Marni

Swiss-born, Milan-based designer Consuelo Castiglioni, who founded the brand Marni over 20 years ago, stepped down from her position earlier this week to welcome her new replacement, Francesco Risso.  While it was rumored that Castiglioni would be stepping down after her runway show this fall, the news has stirred up controversy in the fashion world.  Nonetheless, she gave her blessing to Risso, and is confident he will design with her vision in mind.

Marni's Spring/Summer '17 show at Milan Fashion Week via Elle.com

Marni’s Spring/Summer ’17 show at Milan Fashion Week via Elle.com

In a 2014 interview with The Telegraph, Castiglioni said:

I design for an independent woman. She dresses for herself, not to please others or to be judged. She wears Marni because she feels good in it, individual… I don’t like clothes that are tight or fitted, clothes that are about… [she spits out the word] SEX. This you will NEVER find in my collections. There is femininity, but it is an elegant femininity.

Take these one-of-a-kind sculptural pumps by Marni for example.  In a world dominated by sex appeal, they are a refreshing reminder that fashion is not about sex.  It is about uniquely expressing one’s individuality through the simplistic art form of dressing.  

Marni Sculptural Pump, $980, via Moda Operandi

Marni Sculptural Pump, $980, via Moda Operandi

 

Wear these babies with a flared midi-skirt and a tucked-in blouse for a look that’s both fashionable and feminine.

Marni White Sculptural Pump

 

What do you think of these heels?  Would you wear them?

xoxo

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Delpozo

Delpozo’s new creative director Josep Font has been a breath of fresh air for the brand following Jesus del Pozo’s passing in 2011.  He has managed to remain true to the brand’s Spanish roots, with colorful designs and prints, while mixing in feminine and romantic vibes.

These velvet pumps are a perfect example of the playful, yet ladylike aesthetic.  These flirty heels are covered in pink and navy velvet, with a 4″ chunky heel.  Finish off the look with a below-the-knee skirt and high-collar blouse for a polished, yet refined look.

Delpozo Velvet Pump, $720, via Moda Operandi

Delpozo Velvet Pump, $720, via Moda Operandi 

delpozo velvet pumps

delpozo velvet pumps

 

What do you think of these heels?  Share your thoughts below.

Have a beautiful weekend! 

xo

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Fenty x Puma by Rihanna

If you can’t get enough of Fenty x Puma by Rihanna, you’re not alone.  With sporty accents, yet feminine silhouettes, the entire line is a game-changer.  Wear ’em with cuffed denim and a bomber jacket for the ultimate in athleisure style.

Fenty x Puma by Rihanna Lace-Up Boots with Leather, $879

Fenty x Puma by Rihanna Lace-Up Boots with Leather, $879

253754_detail01Fenty x Puma by Rihanna Lace-Up Boots with Leather

 

What do you think of these boots?  How would you wear them?

xo

5 Unbelievably Chic Street Style Looks To Copy Now

There’s something about the way some people are able to style pieces that give them a certain je ne sais quoi.  Fortunately for the rest of us, we can always copy them.  Didn’t someone once say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery?

 Check out these amazing street style looks from Fashion Week.  Then, choose to shop the items listed below, or scrounge through your closet for similar items.

1.

NYFW Street Style: Day Two

M Missoni shorts, $193, via farfetch.com

Gianvito Rossi black booties, $995, via farfetch.com

Sergio Rossi clutch, $1,370, via farfetch.com

H&M sunglasses via hm.com

H&M Ruffled Blouse, $49.99, via hm.com

2.

NYFW Street Style: Day Two

Antipodium silk cami, $132, via runway2street.com

Chloé wide leg denim jeans, $695, via matchesfashion.com

Stuart Weitzman leather footwear, $375 via julian-fashion.com

Lacoste blue leather shoulder bag, $175, via lacoste.com

Fallon choker jewelry, $125, via barneys.com

Lens sunglasses, $33, via brazilianbikinishop.com

Chanel long wearing lipstick, $37, via violetgrey.com

Mac Opulash Optimum Mascara, $18, via saksfifthavenue.com

Macaron Lip Balm, $7, via boogzel.com

3.

 

NYFW Street Style
Lemaire white top, $182, via farfetch.com

Ray-Ban sunglasses, $123, via vestiairecollective.com

Gucci leather belt, $290, via gucci.com

V neck sweater, $15.48, via sammydress.com

High Waist Fringed Asymmetric Skirt, $14.75, via sammydress.com

Black pumps, $19.54, via sammydress.com

4.

Day Two: The Best NYFW Street Style

Autumn Cashmere turtleneck top, $162, via theoutnet.com

Paul Smith coat, $850, via paulsmith.co.uk

7 For All Mankind slim fit jeans, $249, via stylebop.com

Sophia Webster leather sneaker, $260, via lanecrawford.com

Emoji handbag, $24, via pixiemarket.com

J Crew leather glove, $81, via jcrew.com

Samsung Galaxy S6 4G Cell Phone, $200, via bestbuy.com

Beanie hat via aliexpress.com

5.

 

NYFW Streetstyle

Monki knit shirt, $33, via monki.com

Shrimps blue coat, $448, via thecorner.com

Miu Miu purple skirt, $660, via net-a-porter.com

Isabel Marant black suede booties, $594, via theoutnet.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs shoulder strap purse, $180, via veryexclusive.co.uk
What are your favorite street style looks?  Will you be channeling any of the above looks?
xo

Pantone’s Top 10 Colors For Spring 2017

pantonecolorfruit

Pantone has expedited its color forecasting this year and released the top colors for Spring 2017.  The immediacy of this release is in part because of the see now, buy now movement following New York Fashion Week.  Niagara Blue, a denim-inspired hue, is number one, followed closely by a ladylike yellow, known as Primrose Yellow.

Check out the top 10 picks below.  

10. Hazelnut 14-1315

Pantone Hazelnut

9. Kale 18-0107

Pantone Kale

8. Pink Yarrow 17-2034

Pantone Pink Yarrow

7. Greenery 15-0343

Pantone Greenery

6. Pale Dogwood 13-1404

Pantone Pale Dogwood

5. Island Paradise 14-4620A

Pantone Island Paradise

4. Flame 17-1462

Pantone Flame

3. Lapis Blue 19-4045

Pantone Lapis Blue

2. Primrose Yellow 13-0755

Pantone Primrose Yellow

1. Niagara 17-4123

Pantone Niagara

 

What colors do you like the best?  

xo

SHOE PORN THURSDAY: Chloe Gosselin

Chloe Gosselin is a newcomer on the design scene, and is sure to be a name you’ll be hearing more about in the coming months.  After working as an internationally recognized model for almost a decade, she studied shoemaking at FIT in New York, along with Ars Sutoria in Milan.  The French designer blends her heritage culture, along with influences throughout her travels, to create shoes that invoke feelings and thoughts; inspired by music, contemporary art, photography and vintage aesthetics.

Check out these Plumeria pumps by Chloe Gosselin below, adorned with emerald Orylag fur.  Wear them with an A-line mini skirt and black tights for a fashionable fall look.

 

Chloe Gosselin Plumeria pumps, $1,100, via ChloeGosselin.com

Chloe Gosselin Plumeria pumps, $1,100, via ChloeGosselin.com

chloe gosselin plumeria

What are your thoughts about these shoes?  How would you wear them?

xo, lovelies

What’s Trending: 5 Fall Fashion Trends To Wear Right Now

Fall is upon us, and with each new season, there are new and exciting fashion trends.  While we are watching the runways for the upcoming Spring and Summer 2017 shows, we are nonetheless shopping for the latest fall fashion trends.  Here are the top 5 trends you’ll be seeing this season that you’ll want to wear already.

( 1 )

Grunge

Via Fashionisers

Via Fashionisers

The 90’s are back in full force.  Think flannels, slip dresses, deconstructed denim, patent leather trench coats, and oversized cardigans.

( 2 )

Neck Candy

via Fashion360mag

via Fashion360mag

Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed that chokers are everywhere.

( 3 )

Bohemian

Via Fashionisers

Via Fashionisers

Suede & velvet boots, paisley prints, intricate embroidery, and oversized flares are all Bohemian, 70’s-inspired staples.

( 4 )

Dusty Rose & Yellow

Via InStyle

Via InStyle

( 5 )

The Power Suit

via StyleCaster

via StyleCaster

There’s no denying that Hillary Clinton may have been the inspiration behind this emerging fashion trend.  Think bright colors and patterns to give a fresh and fun vibe to the pantsuit.

What are your favorite trends of this upcoming fall & winter season?  Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

xo