Author: styleand

Spring 2017 Trend Alert: Feminine Florals

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SPRING 17 TREND ALERT: FEMININE FLORALS

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I remember when I lived in a colder climate…once the holidays were over and the new year was in full swing, it sometimes felt as if winter would never end. Fear not, friends, no matter where you live, the days are becoming longer and warmer temperatures are ahead.

The past two years have been a blur…the majority of one being pregnant and last year adapting to life as a new mom. Despite being in fashion for as long as I can remember, I realized I had not updated my wardrobe in QUITE some time and so I have determined that 2017 is the year of getting back to myself. So as I update my look, I will be sharing some of these additions with you.

This spring, a trend you will see everywhere is what I am calling Feminine Florals…floral printed pieces with ruffles, lace and all types of beautiful details. There are tops, blouses, dresses, skirts and even pants. While these prints feel fresh for Spring many of them can still be worn in cooler temperatures. You can create transitional looks with denim, boots and layered with jackets or sweaters.

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When looking for new pieces that work for my lifestyle, I started looking at some of my favorite brands and was delighted to find they were offering irresistible floral pieces in their Spring collections. It was hard to edit the options as I could have featured another ten styles on top of the ones here! To start, I paired the romantic Alexis dress featured above with my essential Rag and Bone Newbury boots to give the dress a more casual, boho vibe. This dress is truly a showstopper and I felt chic and fashion forward wearing it. The Joie sleeveless top featured here and the cover has a cheerful floral print and is perfect for weekend brunch, romps at the park or a casual dinner.

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The Zimmermann smocked top featured here is covetable piece with amazing handiwork in its graphic lace pattern. This top is a bit oversized and so it looks best with a slim pair of denim and a chic pump.

Some of my friends say they feel silly or look too “girly” in floral prints. If you want to keep your look from feeling too frilly, pair it with a sleek pair of pants or pencil skirt, distressed denim, funky boots or a studded accessory.

The options are endless. You will have no problem finding a wide selection of gorgeous feminine floral pieces to inject into your closet this Spring.

Product Details: Alexis dress is available at www.revolve.com, Joie top at www.neimanmarcus.com and the Zimmermann Top at www.shopbop.com.

Happy Shopping!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photos by Erica Dunhill

www.ericadunhillphotography.com

f. 15.2017
Lovely Lingerie

LOVELY LINGERIE

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it seems fitting to discuss upgrading your undergarments. Why keep old, ill fitting or boring pieces when lovely lingerie options abound?

For whatever reason, I found myself holding on to undergarments for far longer than I should…I am not sure why as I would never wear clothing that was in the same condition. Last year, a few months after my daughter was born, I invested in an assortment of new lingerie basics. These well-fitting and pretty undergarments were an excellent choice. I like the confidence and sense of femininity I have when wearing these, just as I do when wearing a well-styled outfit. While I almost never match my shoes and handbag, I almost always match my underthings. Here are a few of my favorites…

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NOT-SO-BASIC BRAS

I like having underwire support in my bras. It gives lift, support and makes clothing fit nicely. My favorites are the Stella McCartney Stella Smooth & Lace Contour Plunge Bra and Natori Feathers Collection. I tried a variety of options but these two are my favorites as they are comfortable and versatile while still incorporating beautiful details. The strapless versions and coordinating panties fit well and offer the same lovely lace and trims.

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CHIC COMFORT

For times when comfort is the priority, I like the Cosabella Ceylon Criss Cross Bralet…its perfect to wear while lounging around the house. The beautiful lace and criss cross straps make slouchy tees and sheer fabrics a bit sexier.

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LACE LAYERS

Also part of the Natori Feathers collection is this gorgeous lace bodysuit, which works perfectly under jackets and blouses. It adds a touch of glamour and elegance to sophisticated ensembles. The best part about bodysuits-no tucking required! Everything stays smooth and in place effortlessly.

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Its time to toss those old items and give yourself the gift of lovely lingerie this Valentine’s Day.

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Bisous,

Rebecca

Items found at www.journelle.com and www.netaporter.com.

f. 6.2017
Quick and Healthy Breakfast Options

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QUICK AND HEALTHY BREAKFAST OPTIONS

sWith the new year in full swing and those fitness goals still front and center, I have shared three quick and healthy breakfast options below. I find preparing meals in advance makes it much easier to be successful in eating clean. All of these recipes can be made ahead of time, are delicious and healthy.

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PROTEIN PANCAKES

These Perfect Fit Pancakes from Tone It Up are easy to prepare and taste great! I add vanilla, nutmeg and blueberries to give them more flavor.

Ingredients, 1 serving

1 scoop Perfect Fit Protein

½ banana, mashed

¼ cup egg whites

½ tablespoon almond milk

1 tsp cinnamon

Step 1: Mash banana with almond milk before stirring in remaining ingredients

Step 2: Spray pan with cooking spray and heat over medium-low before pouring in batter. Flip when ready. The key to the perfect protein pancake is to cook them slow and low.

source: www.toneitup.com

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STEEL CUT OATS WITH APPLES, PEARS & ALMONDS

Ingredients, 3-4 servings

1 cup steel cut oats

3 cups water

pinch of salt

1 apple, sliced

1 pear, sliced

optional toppings: sliced almonds, walnuts, cranberries, brown sugar

Step 1: Bring 3 cups water and pinch of salt to a boil, add 1 cup of oats.

Step 2: Reduce heat to low simmer. Cover and cook 15-20 minutes, depending on preferred consistency.

Step 3: Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for a 3-5 minutes

Step 4: Heat a little coconut or grapeseed oil in a pan and sautee sliced apples and pears. I season with cinnamon, nutmeg and coriander.

Step 5: Top your oatmeal with fruit and any other toppings!

source: my own concoction

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BREAKFAST WRAPS

These breakfast wraps can be whipped up quickly and also be frozen. Change up the ingredients to give yourself some variety.

Ingredients, 1 serving

1 tortilla (I usually select a low carb option, there are gluten free or whole wheat options)

3 egg whites

¼ cup chopped tomatoes

¼ cup chopped spinach

2 mushrooms, sliced

sprinkle of sea salt and pepper

Step 1: Spray non-stick cooking spray in a pan and cook egg whites, tomatoes, spinach and mushrooms. Season with sea salt and pepper.

Step 2: Add egg mixture to tortilla and roll tightly. If freezing, wrap in plastic wrap.

To unfreeze, microwave for 4-6 minutes. For added flavor, dip in salsa and enjoy.

source: my own concoction

Bon Appetit!

sBisous,

Rebecca

f. 25.2017
Fashionable Fitness Wear

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FASHIONABLE FITNESS WEAR

In January, it seems that most us are focused on keeping health and fitness at the forefront of our goals. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, there are an endless number of parties and celebrations that it make tough to stay on track with healthy eating and workouts. It feels good to refocus and start the year with a clean slate. Not only do health and improved physical appearance inspire me to get to the gym, but new workout wear can add some additional motivation! With the endless choices that are available, it is easier than ever to look fashionable while doing activities of virtually any kind. Check out some of the fitness clothing and gear that allows you to look fabulous while getting your fitness on.

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WHAT TO WEAR

I remember going to LA many years ago and the Lululemon boutiques being a highlight of the trip. They paved the way for premium workout wear and, now, there are more brands than you can count and at a variety of price points. Kate Hudson’s company, Fabletics offers fashionable looks at reasonable prices. Some of my favorite places to shop for fitness apparel include Sweaty Betty, Carbon 38, Adidas by Stella McCartney and Peony and Me. I could not resist this Spiritual Gangster tank and the Le Sportsac bag is the perfect size for gym essentials.

FOOTWEAR

If fitness clothing has progressed, fitness sneakers have come just as far. Have you seen some of the options? Nike, New Balance, Adidas…all have updated fashion selections. My recent favorites are these Athletic Propulsion Labs sneakers.

GEAR

From beautiful yoga mats to pink boxing gloves…even fitness gear has incorporated fun colors, designs and styling. The yoga mat featured is from La Vie Boehme, who offers a gorgeous assortment of printed yoga mats.

TECHNOLOGY

Whether you are using a smart watch, Fitbit or other fitness tracker, there are countless options that are stylish and functional. Music is essential to my workouts and so these gorgeous Caeden wireless headphones keep me in the zone.

WATER BOTTLES

I have several of these S’well water bottles…they keep hot beverages hot and cold beverages cold for hours. I came to work one morning and had ice cubes left from the day prior. The 25 oz size also holds a bottle of wine….for those non-workout occasions. 😉

Freshen up your fitness fashion with some of these pieces and stay motivated!

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 23.2017
Sheet Mask Review

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SHEET MASK REVIEW

sPerhaps it is the quest for younger and more radiant skin that explains why I am always interested in new skin care products. Over the past few years, I have noticed a number of sheet masks being offered by different skin care brands and decided to order some different ones to try.

I first learned about sheet masks while vacationing in the French West Indies some years back…this gorgeous woman from Hong Kong told me about Korean skin care lines and how sheet masks were all the rage in Asia. At that time, sheet masks were not widely available in department stores or Sephora and so I ordered directly from a Korean website. I liked these masks and started integrating them into my weekly skin care routine. At that time, I was traveling three to four months a year and my skin needed as much help as possible. I now keep a few masks packed in my travel bag so I always have them available.

Sheet masks are a convenient way to infuse your skin with moisture and leave your skin soft and smooth. There are a variety of brands that have sheet mask options and I have highlighted a few of my favorites below.

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KARUNA

Karuna is the first sheet mask brand to launch in the U.S. and has an extensive assortment. Whether you need to moisturize, exfoliate or you have sensitive skin, there is an option for you. I have tried their brightening, anti aging, exfoliating, hand and foot masks and am pleased with the results. They are easy to apply and my skin feels fresh and hydrated after using.

Available at www.karunaskin.com.

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DR. JART

Dr. Jart, a skin care company founded by Dr. Jung, a Korean dermatologist, and Chin Wook Lee , works closely with a group of dermatologists from 15 different clinics to develop cutting edge dermatological products. In addition to their line of problem solving products, Dr. Jart has a collection of sheet masks. They have area specific masks-a Laugh Line Lift, Neck and Chin mask, as well as a Pore Minimalist, Wrinkles Solution and variety of other masks. I tried a few of their masks and was pleased with the results. My skin was smooth and supple after using.

Available at www.sephora.com.

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NANETTE DE GASPE

This luxury skin care line boasts a “revolutionary technology that offers women a truly delicate experience as well as immediate results without the need for surgery or the other intrusive approaches.” Sounds too good to be true? These masks offer a waterless formula that include a combination of powerful age renewal actives in a hydrating formula with ingredients that help stimulate the synthesis of collagen and elastin – visibly tighten the skin, improve skin texture and reduce the depth of wrinkles. While these masks are pricier than the others, each mask can be used 3 times. If I have an event, I will use them 3 consecutive days prior so that my skin is glowing.

Available at www.barneys.com

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SHISHEDO

Shishedo has an extensive skin care assortment that includes a retinol sheet mask. This sheet mask encourages skin’s natural recovery function and infuses skin with hydrating moisture to help improve texture. It smoothes fine lines and brightens your complexion.

Available at www.sephora.com.

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If your skin needs a quick pick me up, I recommend trying some of these masks. In only fifteen minutes, you can look refreshed and youthful. If you have recommendations, tell us in the comments below. Enjoy!

Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 21.2017
Lovely Desk Accessories

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Lovely Desk Accessories

For most, we spend at least forty hours per week at work…for others, it may be more. Why settle for standard supplies when there are lovely desk accessories that will make your workspace as chic as your wardrobe? There is something special about opening my agenda, using a high quality pen and reviewing my calendar. It allows me to approach the day with a sense of calm and the ability to organize my thoughts and schedule. I also enjoy distributing a packet of documents with an gold or printed binder clip. I work in fashion, so these details are appreciated. Some careers need to be more serious, but, your desk is your space and you can customize as it suits you.

Unique paper clips, binder clips and other supplies are abundant on Amazon. Kate Spade offers a gorgeous collection of desk accessories, stationery…even file folders! Sugar Paper LA and Rifle Paper Company have a unique assortment of stationery and desk accessories.

Dress up that desk, since you will be spending a lot of time at work, you may as well make it as pretty as possible!

Bisous,
Rebecca

agenda, organizer, stapler available at www.katespade.com

gold binder clips, paperclips available at www.amazon.com

pen, cell phone case available at www.sugarpaper.com

f. 15.2017
Extending Kindness at Christmas

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Extending Kindness at Christmas

We will hear Andy William’s sing “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” on the radio, in restaurants and malls through the month of December. That is certainly how I feel when I start to see Christmas lights going up and smell pine scented candles everywhere. However, for many, the holidays are a time of painful memories, fear and disappointment. Instead of only creating a list of things you want to receive this year…why not also create a list of things we want to give this holiday season?

Here are some ideas on how we can extend kindness this Christmas.

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ADOPT A FAMILY

Now that I have a child, I cannot imagine being unable to afford any Christmas gifts for her or have a nice meal…find a family through a local non-profit organization and give a family in need a holiday they will always remember.

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HELP THE HOMELESS

Opportunities abound! You do not have to look far…find somewhere that is passing out food, shelter or clothing and show those less fortunate you care about their situation.

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DO HOSPITAL ROUNDS

Can you imagine being in the hospital during the holidays? Call your local hospital and find out the best way to visit patients that do not have loved ones with them. Bring cookies, flowers or a smile to brighten their day.

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SUPPORT OUR TROOPS AND VETERANS

Put political views aside and take a moment to show gratitude to those who forfeit the comforts and security of home to protect our country. These brave men and women have given more than we can imagine to keep us safe.

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PLAY SECRET SANTA

sWe all know someone who is in a challenged or less fortunate situation…why not play Secret Santa and anonymously send a grocery store gift card, meal or gift? They will forever be wondering who took the time to show they care.

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For other ideas, visit post Extending Kindness at Thanksgiving…my guess is that you will probably experience as much joy as those receiving the kindness.

Happy Holidays to all!

Bisous,
Rebecca

f. 8.2016
And We’re Back…

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And We’re Back…

After a 1.5 year hiatus…Style & Life returns. When I found out I was pregnant, I became overwhelmed with the idea of juggling family, career, blog and all other things. As is usually the case, things are usually worse in your mind than anywhere else. After taking a few months to endlessly kiss baby cheeks, I got into routine and found the creative side of myself needing an outlet. And, so, here we are. When I think of Style & Life, I think of us as your go-to friend when you don’t know what to wear, the place where you hear a new beauty tip that adds a bit of pizzazz to your makeup routine or when you need a fresh recipe for a dinner party. That’s who we are. I hope you enjoy the new content and look forward to much more.

Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 25.2016
One Two Lash…Making Beauty Effortless

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One Two Lash…Making Beauty Effortless

One of my dearest friends did what many aspire to do…she quit her prestigious, well-paying job to follow her dream. As the age old story sometimes goes, many asked why she left such an amazing career, but, smiling in the face of naysayers, she invented something to make our lives easier. Magnetic false lashes. Genius. Simply genius.

For those who have had the painstaking experience of applying false lashes, it’s a messy event. Glue, dropped lashes, positioning and repositioning. I have never mastered the skill. Disappointing, because I feel false eyelashes emphasize your eyes and make me feel glamorous.

One Two Lash has micro magnets on they sandwich your natural eyelashes. I personally like to put on my mascara before applying. They are so easy to use that you can wear them every day. It takes a bit of practice to learn how to apply, but, once you learn you will not forget and application adds less than a minute to your morning routine. What I like the most about these lashes is that the Originals are natural looking enough to wear every day. There are accent lashes included in the set so you can make them fuller if desired. Bold are perfect for a night out. Voila. We knew there had to be a better way. My friend, Katy Stoka, actually found it. Available for purchase at www.onetwolash.com.

Bisous,
Rebecca

**mascara is mine and not included

f. 24.2016
Fall 2016 Beauty Report

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Fall 2016 Beauty Report

What faster way is there to keep your look current than incorporating a few fall beauty trends? Below is Style & Life’s Fall Beauty Report and you will find five simple beauty trends that will keep you looking fabulous.

MATTE NAIL POLISH

Give your nails a bit of edge this fall and layer a matte topcoat over any polish. I believe this looks best on shorter, natural nail shapes and especially like how it looks on dark colors…navy, grey and purple. Some good matte topcoat options are Zoya Matte Velvet Top Coat and Smith & Cult Top Coat Flatte.

LUSCIOUS LIPS

While it seems to be a trend every fall, dark and dramatic lips always make me feel it is time to start wearing sweaters, autumnal colors and additional layers. I usually like to keep my lip color on the lighter side but it is fun to change up your look and add a pop of color. If you do not want to look severe, try a berry or brick color.

BLACK IS BACK

As in eyeliner…this trend was featured in many Fall 2016 runway shows like Chloe, Nicole Miller, Roberto Cavalli and Monique Lhuillier. Liquid, powder, pencil or gel…the method is up to you but black eyeliner adds serious sex appeal for fall evenings out.

TOP KNOT

Knots…messy and polished alike graced the Fall 2016 runway shows at Celine, Dior and Marchesa. This trend is a favorite of mine because it looks natural and is easy to achieve. I especially like the braided versions.

CROWNED JEWELS

Beautiful hair jewelry was featured at Sonia Rykiel, Dolce & Gabbana and Erdem. This trend can dress up a casual daytime look or add some sparkle into your holiday ensemble.

Try incorporating some of these beauty trends this fall to keep your look fresh. I hope you feel gorgeous!

Bisous,

Rebecca

Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 20.2016