Author: styleand

Eyelet Styles for Summer

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Eyelet Styles for Summer

No longer too sweet and just in white…this season, eyelet is everywhere and it is fresher than ever! Printed, colored and in every silhouette imaginable…it is tough to choose! I like eyelet because it is usually worn during the day but has so much detail in the handiwork that it still looks upscale. Here are three beautiful and unique eyelet styles for summer.

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The Romantic Dress

This Margheita Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress by Sea is a dream. From the eyelet detail, flattering silhouette and dusty shade of pink…this dress is romantic perfection. While wearing this dress you will feel like you are having tapas and wine in Spain. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

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Chic Culottes

These airy Alice & Olivia Eden Silk Culottes are a fun take on eyelet. To keep the look soft and bohemian, I paired them with the Misa Los Angeles Off-the-Shoulder Ruffle Top. This ensemble looks best with wedges or heels to keep the pants flattering. Pants available at www.nordstrom.com, top available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

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The Perfect Weekend Top

We all need one of these…a top that is versatile, comfortable and looks stylish and polished. That’s a tall order but look no further, friends…this Tory Burch Lace Trim Silk Georgette Top is just the right piece. The fun print makes it even more special. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

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Hope these looks have inspired you to create your own eyelet ensembles for summer!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

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A special thank you to Miami Design District for providing such a beautiful environment in which to shoot!

f. 6.2017
A Moment of Zen…Tea Traditions

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A Moment of Zen…Tea Traditions

For many, their day does not officially begin until they have their coffee…for me, mine does not start until I have my tea. Once I have my tea, I can officially start being productive. Most often, I drink loose leaf teas, and have a few different instruments to help me drink them. I have a mesh tea infuser (pictured below)…it is easy to use pop in a mug, I have the glass infuser and a classic tea pot (pictured above).

When I first started drinking tea, I used tea bags but, as time went on, I started trying a variety of teas…chai, white, black and red teas. There are so many different flavors in these teas and I am always on the hunt for new varieties. I cover some of my favorite loose leaf teas in my 3 French Teas to try in Paris post from when I first started Style & Life. These teas are still among my favorites. On one of our trips to Paris, my husband and I spent a gloomy, yet lovely, afternoon roaming the streets of Saint Germain and stumbled upon a delightful tea shop. They had a large selection of Japanese tea pots. There were some exquisite pieces with prices over $1000. That Christmas, he surprised me with this beautiful tea set that looked much like the ones we saw in Paris. (available at www.teavana.com)

Calorie free, yet full of flavor, tea can aid digestion and contains antioxidants. It has less caffeine than coffee which makes it perfect for serving guests after dinner. Be sure to offer some of the beautiful sugars featured in our Canasuc Sugar post.

I encourage you to give tea a try, it can be a moment of Zen in your busy day!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 5.2017
White Hot for Summer

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White Hot for Summer

There is nothing that says summer more than head-to-toe white ensembles. Cool, crisp and chic….white is a summer staple. To give you a few ideas, I have created three looks that will keep you white hot for summer.

This Cushnie Et Ochs One Shoulder Slim Fit Top looks pairs perfectly with my white L’Agence Flared Denim. If you want to try a look that is not monochromatic, wearing it with a pair of slim, ankle length, light colored denim. This top is an excellent fashion staple.

Available at www.neimanmarcus.com

I am channeling my super hero powers in this sophisticated white Lena Jumpsuit from Black Halo. If you want to make a serious fashion statement, this piece will do the trick.

Available at www.shopbop.com

The Elizabeth and James Susannah Body Con Dress is a little white dress that is perfect for a sexy date. The classic and slimming silhouette is flattering on most body types.

Available at www.saks.com

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Have fun creating your own white style this summer!

Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

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Location: Sunset Harbor, Miami Beach, Florida

f. 1.2017
My Five Favorite Foundations

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My Five Favorite Foundations

Sometimes a change of season makes you rethink your beauty routine. With summer’s official start date around the corner, make sure you have the right foundation for all of your summer soirees. Below, I highlight the features of my five favorite foundations.

Giorgio Armani Power Fabric Longwear

This Giorgio Armani foundation is a liquid foundation that is full coverage and lightweight at the same time. It also has SPF 25, so on days where I am just going to the office, this is all I wear. It leaves a nice velvet matte finish to your skin and will last all day.

It comes in 20 shades that suit all skin tones.

Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

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Bare Minerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Gel Cream

This tinted moisturizer is a mineral based gel cream and feels super smooth as you are applying it to your skin. It gives sheer to medium coverage and, out of all of the foundations, I believe this one truly gives the appearance of not wearing makeup. It contains heart-leaf globe daisy, an antioxidant which aids in protecting against environmental stressors.

SPF 30. Available in 16 colors and there are 4 colors available in travel size!

Available at www.sephora.com

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NARS All Day Luminous Weightless Foundation

The name suits this foundation because it has definitely earned its lightweight name. You legitimately forget you are wearing foundation but actually have medium to full coverage. This formula contains Even Tone Technology which is designed to reduce the appearance of discoloration for more even, uniform skin. This foundation does not include sunscreen, so be sure to layer it before applying. It comes in 20 gorgeous shades.

Available at www.saks.com

Makeup Forever Ultra HD Invisible Cover

This 2015 Allure Beauty Award winning foundation is one I have been using for many years. Makeup Forever is a French line of cosmetics that is used by makeup artists all over the world. I heard their CEO speak at a conference a couple of years ago and she shared how their products are made of such high quality that they are used on many movie sets. While I usually use this foundation on days when I want more coverage, you can actually apply it to make it appear very light and natural. I always wear it when going out in the evening because it gives your skin good coverage and a luminous glow. If you are wearing it during the day, layer your sunscreen under it because it does not contain SPF. There are 40 shades available.

Available at www.sephora.com

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NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer

This is a tinted moisturizer that gives a bright and natural glow. I like this for weekend days and sometimes wear it to work if I feel like a lighter makeup routine. This blend is formulated with kopara, a mineral from French Polynesia that works to combat age-accelerating pollutants re-mineralize skin for a softer, smoother complexion. Contains SPF 30. Available in 7 shades.

Available at www.nordstrom.com

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I would love to hear your favorites in the comments below!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 30.2017
The Best Memorial Day Sales

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The Best Memorial Day Sales

It should come as no surprise that I love to shop. Always have…and since I work in the fashion industry and understand fabric, fit and quality…I tend to like some of the more expensive designers. Don’t get me wrong…I shop anywhere and everywhere because the most important thing is creating your own personal style. Fortunately, there are a ton of brands (Zara, H & M, Aritzia) that offer great style at low price points so there is no need to buy expensive items all of the time. I do like to invest in certain pieces that are the foundation of my wardrobe and that I will wear over and over. While I may try to buy better designers, I like to get these pieces on sale whenever possible. This weekend is a great time to find spring and summer styles on sale! Plus, since it is a three day weekend (woohoo)…there is extra time for lounging around and shopping online. See below for sales I will be shopping this weekend.

Net-A-Porter

Net-A-Porter was really the first online-only luxury retailer. They carry a variety of designers from Gucci to Nike. Now is the perfect time to shop because you can get top designers on sale. If you have been wanting to invest in wardrobe staples like blazers, trousers, or shoes; this may be the perfect time to buy.

www.netaporter.com

Intermix

Intermix curates a chic assortment of contemporary and luxury designers. They often carry new and upcoming designers on their site. This weekend, they are running an extra 40% off their sale section and there are a ton of gorgeous styles available for purchase.

www.intermixonline.com

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Shopbop

Shopbop has an extensive assortment of unique designers and there are a number of fabulous summer styles that are on sale. Bonus: you can use your Amazon Prime account for 2 day shipping!

www.shopbop.com

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Nordstrom

Nordstrom is running their Half Yearly Sale and there are a ton of bargains on their website and in stores. In addition to some great fashion options for yourself, it is also a good time to pick up a Father’s Day gift for the men in your life.

www.nordstrom.com

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Barney’s New York

The ultimate in luxury goods, Barney’s New York is rarely on sale so I like to take advantage of this time of year and the discounts they are offering!

www.barneys.com

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Happy shopping and I wish you a wonderful Memorial Day weekend!

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 27.2017
Asparagus Salad Recipe

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Asparagus Salad Recipe

Need a delicious and easy recipe to take to weekend barbecues and parties? Look no further, friends, this recipe will do the trick. I have served this a number of times and it is always a hit. Bonus: unlike lettuce salads, you can eat this salad the next day! Hope you and your guests enjoy this Asparagus Salad Recipe.

Ingredients:

Vinaigrette

6 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (I like Bistro Blends Heirloom Balsamic Vinegar)

1/4 cup olive oil (I use Sadeg Organic)

2 teaspoons Dijon mustard

2 teaspoons honey

1 clove garlic, minced

sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Salad

2 pounds fresh asparagus (medium thickness) diced into 2-inch pieces

be sure to trim the tough ends.

1 package grape or cherry tomatoes, halved.

I often add yellow cherry tomatoes if available, they add a nice pop of color.

2/3 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

4 oz feta cheese, crumbled

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Directions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. While water is boiling, toast the walnuts and prepare the vinaigrette. Add vinegar to a small saucepan, bring to a boil over medium heat and allow to boil until reduced by half, about 3 minutes. Pour into a bowl, add olive oil, dijon mustard, honey, garlic and whisk to blend while seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Add asparagus to boiling water and boil until tender crisp, about 4 – 5 minutes. Meanwhile, fill a medium mixing bowl with ice and cold water. Drain and immediately transfer asparagus to ice water, let rest about 10 seconds then drain asparagus well. Transfer to a bowl with tomatoes and walnuts. Drizzle vinaigrette over top and toss lightly. Sprinkle over half of the feta then plate and top with remaining feta (so that the feta doesn’t brown from tossing with all the dressing).

Serve and Enjoy!

source: www.cookingclassy.com

Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 25.2017
Lovely Lace Looks

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LOVELY LACE LOOKS

The Spring 2017 fashion trends have been full of romance…florals, ruffles, pink and now lace. While lace is a classic fabric, there are so many fresh and innovative pieces in stores. Whether it is unique lace patterns, fresh color options or new silhouettes, there are a variety of lovely lace styles in the market this Spring. I have highlighted some of my favorite pieces below.

This gorgeous Elizabeth and James lace top is a wardrobe staple that will last for years. Perfect to wear with denim during the early days of Spring when the weather is just starting to warm or with shorts during the hot days of summer. This white lace top makes casual looks chic. Available at www.saks.com.

This exquisite Alexis Finn Lace top is like a little piece of art. The combination of the intricate lace pattern and blush color combination is positively divine. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com

The Bardot Karlie Dress is a feminine and flattering lace dress. The cold shoulder detail makes it current and the sheer lace hem shows the lovely lace pattern. I purchased this dress to wear for Easter and a baby shower and found it the perfect option for both occasions. Available at www.revolve.com.

These are just a few of the many lace options available this Spring; find yours to create a lovely lace look.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 22.2017
The Cellulite Battle

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The Cellulite Battle

While this topic is certainly not lovely or elegant, it is a topic that many women spend hours agonizing over. Unfortunately, I was not blessed with the “no cellulite gene” and so cellulite is something I am battling. And, so, I am always keeping an eye out for new products that may make a difference.

Obviously, healthy eating and exercise are the foundation of any beauty routine and essential for staying lean and fit. I am in the process of re-establishing my health and fitness routines. During pregnancy and after having my daughter, I have struggled to maintain the level of consistency but am continuing to improve every day. While I believe those are the most important things I can do for my health and appearance, I still am determined to improve this cellulite challenge so I am sharing three treatments I believe help cellulite and improve the overall appearance of my skin.

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DRY BRUSHING

There is a tremendous amount of skepticism about the effectiveness of dry brushing…regardless; I have grown to enjoy it as part of my pre-shower routine. Dry brushing is supposed to help cellulite because it improves vascular blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. Since I am unsure if that is happening, I do know that it is a great exfoliate and sheds dead skin cells, which is enough of a reason to continue. While painful when I first started, I have grown to enjoy dry brushing because my skin feels fresh and invigorated. Be sure to move in circular motions toward your heart. This Aromatherapy Associates Polishing Body Brush is made from natural cactus bristles. Available at www.aromatherapyassociates.com.

THE FASCIA BLASTER

A gimmick? I am an eternal optimist and so I am going to continue hoping this treatment is effective. Ashley Black, creator of the Fascia Blaster and author of The Cellulite Myth, has a number of videos and before/after images on her website. I have looked at these testimonials and am choosing to believe it is possible. This item is $89 and I actually find it so pretty with its white and rose gold color combination. I do feel the skin on my legs looks smoother…I use this pretty vigorously and have gotten some bruises that make me think this it is working. Available at www. ashleyblackguru.com.

BRAZILIAN BUM BUM CREAM

So, I might have gotten sucked into trying this cream because of the fun name and packaging…AND the large number of svelte and gorgeous Brazilian models. This product is made with guaraná, a native Amazonian plant whose fruit contains one of the most potent forms of caffeine on the planet. The cream also includes nourishing cupuaçu butter, antioxidant powerhouse açaí, and moisturizing coconut oil. This formula quickly absorbs and has a yummy pistachio caramel scent. Verdict is out, but I am going to keep trying to improve. Available at www.sephora.com.

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While no one is 100% certain about the effectiveness of these treatments, I believe they are worth a shot…especially since they are relatively affordable. Do you have favorite products, techniques or ideas? I would LOVE to hear them below!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 20.2017
Summer Sandal Edit

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Summer Sandal Edit

As the days are getting longer and vacations are being planned, it is time to think about your summer sandal options. One of the best parts about summer is the ease of dressing…there is nothing more carefree than throwing on a pair of fun sandals with a sundress or pair of shorts. There are a number of excellent options available this season and I have highlighted my favorites below. (starting from the top left corner, going across and then to the row beneath)

The Rebecca Minkoff Estelle Sandals are fun and fabulous with their brightly colored pom poms. Also in black. Available at www.rebeccaminkoff.com

Add a bit of glam with these gold Loeffler Randall Sandals…they are super versatile and will go with a variety of summer looks. Available at www.shopbop.com.

The Stuart Weitzman Edgeout Fringe Slide is a chic little denim sandal that looks great with shorts and slim pants. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com

An everyday essential, the Casablanca Leather Sandal by The Row features a super soft footbed and leather straps. Available at www.saks.com.

These multi colored Schutz Estelen Jeweled slides give a touch of global to your summer ensembles. Available at www.saks.com.

A tri colored metallic sandal in sumptuous leather by Ancient Greek Sandals is equal parts chic and comfortable. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

If you are want a bit of boho, the Joie Faina Crochet Sandal is what you need. Available at www.neimanmarcus.com.

Bold and bright, you can wear these fabulous Sophia Webster sandals with almost anything! Available at www.sophiawebster.com

These exquisite Elina Linardaki sandals are crusted with iridescent crystals and positively beautiful. Available at www.saks.com.

Clean and classic, these white Zoe Ancient Greek Sandals are an easy summer option. Available at www.saks.com.

With all of these choices, there should be something for everyone…happy sandal shopping!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 17.2017
Shoulder Statement

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Shoulder Statement

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What makes a sexy statement this season? Shoulders. Whether it be one shoulder, cold shoulder or off-the-shoulder…shoulders are the must have focus this season. Fortunately, shoulders are more forgiving than the midriff baring trend that started a few years back, flattering for most and create a pretty and romantic vibe.

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THE COLD SHOULDER

This Paige Henna Cold Shoulder Silk Top lends a boho vibe, works well with a light colored or white pair of denim or shorts. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

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OFF-THE-SHOULDER

Off-the-shoulder options abound this season, but my favorite is this gorgeous Joie Aria Striped Silk Dress. Despite the horizontal stripes, which are traditionally thought to be unflattering, the execution of the stripes on this dress are flattering and attractive on most body types. Available at www.saks.com.

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ONE SHOULDER

This lovely linen and rayon blend Santorini top by Backstage is a flattering and glamorous top with its ruffled hem. Be sure to order a size down as it runs a bit large. Available at www.revolve.com.

Update your wardrobe and be sure to show off your shoulders this season!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 15.2017