Style & Life – Page 15 – the elegant edit on fashion, beauty, and home

Chic Holiday Style

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Chic Holiday Style

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If you are looking to splurge on a new holiday outfit, look no further… these beautiful pieces are sure to make you feel special through the holidays! Elegant and chic, your holiday style will be on point.

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This timeless black jumpsuit is an elegant option to wear during the holidays. The pearl embellishment is absolutely beautiful and the pockets make it incredibly comfortable. Available at www.netaporter.com.

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This green lace jumpsuit is a sophisticated evening option. Top with a faux fur jacket and you are ready to go out! Now on sale at www.clubmonaco.com.

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This strapless red dress has a full skirt that makes you want to twirl. Available at www.bloomingdales.com. s

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Have fun celebrating the holidays!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 3.2017
How to Create a Sparkly Eye

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How to Create a Sparkly Eye

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Headed out for the holidays? Feel like adding some sparkle to your makeup routine? You are in luck…we are going to tell you how to create a festive and elegant sparkly eye today.

For evenings out, I like to wear shimmery eyeshadows but since we are in the full swing of the holidays, I like to incorporate a bit of glitter for added panache.

This look was created by my incredibly talented makeup artist, Aradia Vive, (see our 5 tips post for more of her makeup tips). She is incredibly professional and works with fashion shows, models and brides so I knew she would be able to create something truly special. Her secret to keep glitter from being garish is to start with a deep smoky eye and then layer the glitter on at the end. Keep reading for Aradia’s technique for how to create this smoky glitter eye.

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“This sexy look never goes out of style. Sultry smoky eye makeup can be a girl’s sexy best friend or worst nightmare. (Hel-lo smudges and raccoon eyes!) When it comes to black shadow, less is more! Rim your top and bottom lash lines with the darkest shade and create a sideways V shape at the outer corners of your lid. Apply the same shade you just used along your bottom lash line with a small angled brush, using short feathering strokes. Wrap around the entire eye. Don’t forget to add a little highlighter. Shimmery white shadow is great for adding a little sparkle to your inner corners, but working it up to your brows is glitter overkill. Dust a gold or copper colored shadow on your lids and smudge it along the lower lash line. Add a hint of bronzer and a nude gloss look for a neutral, everyday smoky eye look that’s anything but boring!”

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She used these Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eyeshadows on the top of this smoky eye. This is an excellent product…the glitter is fine, it is easy to apply and it stays on well. Use sparingly…when it comes to glitter, a little goes a long way. Available at www.sephora.com.

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sWhen I create a dramatic eye like this, I keep the rest of my makeup subtle. For this look, I topped it off with this mini of Nars Gold Digger lip gloss…this liquid gold face set includes 3 amazing products perfect for creating a glow. The lip gloss is the perfect size for an evening clutch.

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Hope this helps you create a gorgeous new look. Have fun celebrating the holidays!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

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A very special thanks to Aradia from Bridal Makeovers by Aradia. Contact her or any occasion you may have…she will create your perfect look!

f. 2.2017
Faux Fur Fashion Favorites

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Faux Fur Fashion Favorites

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The holidays are here! I am not quite sure where the year went but I am excited for next month. Cold temperatures get me in the Christmas spirit and I want my wardrobe to match. Long gone are the days of faux fur feeling inexpensive and coarse, these pieces are super soft and luxurious.

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sThis gorgeous rust and lilac colored jacket is a true statement piece. Fluffy, fashion forward and fabulous, this piece is a must for those with bold style. I like it with jeans and a simple tee but cold also give a rock and roll vibe if worn over a dress with boots. Available at www.saks.com.

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sThis burgandy vest is an excellent option for the warmer days of winter. This vest has a boxy and slightly oversized fit that make it perfect for layering over tops and sweaters. The rich color is perfect for the holidays. Now on sale at www.nordstrom.com.

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This ivory and black jacket is one of the softest faux fur styles I have found. The classic color way gives it an elegant vibe and it is easy to wear with a multitude of black clothing options. Available at www.nordstrom.com.

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Stay stylish and cozy with these faux fur pieces!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 27.2017
#Roseallday with Rêve De La Mer

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#Roseallday with Rêve De La Mer

This post is sponsored by Rêve De La Mer but the content and opinions expressed are my own.

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An afternoon with a friend sipping wine makes for an incredibly enjoyable day. Good conversation, a nice bottle, the sunshine and sea? Hard to beat. Since I live in Miami and the weather is warm most of the year, I tend to drink lighter drinks-wines, champagnes and an all time favorite is rosé. Rosé is a crowd pleaser. It can be served with brunch, lunch, mid-afternoon, with a snack or alone. It is not overly sweet but light, crisp and refreshing.

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So when I was approached about trying Rêve De La Mer rose wine I was excited. A new rose? Excellent! Rêve De La Mer means “Dream of the Sea” in French. This delicious wine contains notes of strawberry, raspberry, apple, grapefruit, a touch of rose petal and orange blossom and then finishes with apricot and white peach. It is produced on the island of Corsica, which has a history of making wine for the past 2600 years.

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This wine tastes as good as it looks with its pretty peach hue. I served it on this Christophle tray with gold rimmed stemless glasses and these gold polka dotted cocktail napkins. Add flowers and you have a stylish presentation, perfect for an afternoon catching up with a friend.

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Now it it just time to raise your glass and celebrate!

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Cheers!

If you would like to toast as the French, it is Santé, which means “health” (good)!

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Bisous,
Rebecca

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f. 25.2017
How to Style: Leather and Lace

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How to Style: Leather and Lace

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Awhile back, I had a conversation with a friend discussing how I would like to get a pair of leather leggings. Living in Florida, it is tough to really justify purchasing a pair since I would wear them fairly infrequently. However, I love how leather looks paired with lace, cozy sweaters and other soft pieces. She said she did not feel comfortable wearing leather because she believed it would look too edgy or super trendy and I convinced her that you can create non-intimidating fashion forward looks with all kind of leather pieces. The conversation inspired me to create these three leather and lace looks that are feminine and flattering for almost everyone.

The Leather Skirt

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This black leather skirt is a classic and will last for many years. Pencil skirts are notoriously flattering and this one is no exception. This beautiful white lace top with dramatic sleeves makes this a look that will turn heads. The skirt is available at www.neimanmarcus.com and the top is available at www.nordstrom.com.

The Leather Top

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Black leather is notoriously edgy but the lace detail and flattering silhouette make this leather and lace peplum top from BCBG a chic dream. Pair with denim or black pants and a pointy toe pump and you are ready for happy hour with friends. Available at www.saks.com.

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The Leather Jacket

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This berry colored Rebecca Taylor leather jacket is a fresh take on a leather jacket. The color is far more versatile than you would think and works perfectly with this floral printed lace top. The jacket is available at www.bloomingdales.com and the top is available at www.nordstrom.com.

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I hope this gives you some inspiration on pairing leather and lace together!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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Photography by Erica Dunhill Photography

f. 19.2017
An Elegant Amuse-Bouche

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An Elegant Amuse-Bouche

Almost everything sounds better in French…the language has that certain je ne sais quoi. While an appetizer sounds fairly straightforward, an amuse-bouche sounds positively delightful.

According to Urban Dictionary, an amuse-bouche is “a small appetizer meant to tease the palate before the meal.” It is a single, bite sized hors d’oeurve that is served as a compliment from the chef. I enjoy serving delicious bites like this and will be serving this Pear with Prosciutto and Blue Cheese amuse-bouche next week for Thanksgiving. The combination of flavors is positively divine and this recipe takes 10 minutes to prepare. I have served this a number of occasions and it always receives rave reviews.

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Pear with Blue Cheese and Prosciutto

Ingredients

2 pears, sliced, I always opt for Bosc pears

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

1 cup arugula

3 ounces blue cheese, cut into small pieces

6 slices thinly sliced prosciutto

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Instructions

In a large bowl, toss the pears and lemon juice. Layer a slice of pear, a few arugula leaves and a piece of cheese on a piece of prosciutto and roll up.

Source: www.realsimple.com

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This recipe is perfect to take to holiday gatherings or serve for anything you are hosting! It looks especially pretty on this cheese board featured in our Marble and Copper Home Accessory post and would make an excellent gift.

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Taste and enjoy!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 18.2017
Festive Fall Sangria

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Festive Fall Sangria Recipe

Hosting? Attending? Either way, this delicious and festive fall sangria recipe will be a hit with your friends and family. It looks as good as it tastes with all of the fall fruits and cinnamon sticks.

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Ingredients

2 medium apples

1 medium orange

1 medium pear

2/3 cup pomegranate seeds

2-3 Cinnamon Sticks

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 cups apple cider

1 cup club soda

1/4 cup orange juice

1/2 cup brandy

1 bottle white wine, my go-to is Ferrari Carano Fumé Blanc

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Instructions

Place the cinnamon sticks and fruit into a large pitcher. Add wine, apple cider, brandy, orange juice, and lemon juice. Allow to sit in the refrigerator for 3 – 24 hours (6-8 hours is ideal)

Pour the sangria and fruit into glasses. Add a splash of club and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

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Toast and enjoy!

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Source: www.sallysbakingaddiction.com

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Bisous,

Rebecca

f. 15.2017
A Chic Thanksgiving Table

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A Chic Thanksgiving Table

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Next in our Thanksgiving series is our home feature. While I absolutely love Thanksgiving, most of the decor associated with the holiday is not quite my style. I live in a high rise condo that is contemporary in feeling…our decor is a palette of grey, white and black so traditional autumnal tones do not complement our aesthetic. However, I wanted to create something chic and elegant so I decided to get creative. I started with my favorite color palette for clothing…blush, white, black and rose gold and took it from there.

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I already had the black Manta Placemats from Z Gallerie so I used those as a foundation. I then used these round white plates for the dinner plates and layered the shimmer rose gold salad plates on top of them, both are from Crate & Barrel. These gorgeous floral napkins from CB2 are really the statement piece and I used these wrap copper napkins rings from Crate & Barrel. This rose gold flatware is positively stunning. The champagne colored pumpkin centerpiece was a gift from my beloved aunt and is available at Pier 1. The gold rimmed stemless glass is from West Elm.

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I usually assign seating to ensure a good flow of conversation. The place card holders are from Crate & Barrel and the rose gold Sharpie is from Amazon.

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If you are entertaining this year, get creative and show your personal style in your Thanksgiving decor!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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f. 14.2017
Elegant Thanksgiving Outfits

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Elegant Thanksgiving Looks

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As I type it, I am in disbelief that is it almost here…Thanksgiving. The kick off to the 6 week holiday season. I love the holidays and feel it is truly “the most wonderful time of the year” and am excited for all of the gatherings. We have some great content coming to you this season so stay tuned for more. If you have not decided what you are wearing for Thanksgiving…look no further. I have created three elegant looks to help you look fabulous for your Thanksgiving soirées.

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Bodysuits are an excellent option when you want your shirt to look pretty and polished. Since Thanksgiving gatherings tend to be longer than a typical dinner or cocktail party, you do not have to worry about your blouse staying tucked in. This gorgeous floral printed bodysuit is perfect in the shimmering copper color. I paired it with dark denim, a thick gold chain and suede pumps. This and other great bodysuit options are available at www.zara.com.

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Since velvet is a key trend this season in everything from clothing to footwear to accessories…I thought it was important to create a look that featured a unique velvet piece. These A.L.C Velvet Pants have a wide leg and are incredibly soft and comfortable…perfect for a large Thanksgiving meal. I like how this black top looks with this ochre color. Top available at www.zara.com, pants available at www.shopbop.com.

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If you are feeling the urge to dress up a bit, this beautiful A.L.C. floral printed dress is an excellent option. It is not overly dressy but feminine and flattering. Wear with tall suede boots and you are set! Available at www.intermixonline.com.

Hope these looks give you some inspiration for your Thanksgiving ensembles!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

Special thanks to MC Kitchen for hosting our photoshoot!

f. 12.2017
My Amazing New Teeth Whitening System

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My Amazing New Teeth Whitening System

read to the end for giveaway details!

I am always on the lookout for beauty tips…especially related to anti-aging. I once read that a key to maintaining a youthful appearance is to keep your teeth white. This was right up my alley since I am one of those strange people who enjoy dental hygiene…brushing, flossing and going to the dentist regularly. I have inquired multiple times about whitening trays but have never wanted to spend the $700-900. When Smile Brilliant reached about reviewing their product, I was excited and curious to see how this product would work.

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When I received my kit, I was impressed. The box contains everything you need…the products to create the trays, the whitening gel and a desensitizing gel. All you have to do is follow the step-by-step instructions to create the molds, send them back and you receive your trays in the mail a couple of weeks later. No appointments, no driving anywhere…it is as easy as Amazon Prime. Once I received the trays, I was pleased to see they fit my teeth perfectly. You simply use the whitening paste and leave on for 45 minutes to 3 hours and, if you need it, the desensitizing gel after. It is that simple. Fortunately, my teeth are not sensitive and I did not need to use the desensitizing gel.

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I was happy with the results. While my teeth are already fairly white, I do feel that this brightened them up nicely. And I can use the trays over and over. Smile Brilliant is permanently being added to my beauty routine since it is a cost effective, convenient and, most importantly, effective method of whitening.

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Before

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After

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If you are interested in learning more about this product check out their other at home teeth whitening reviews. If you order, use coupon code stylelife15 to receive $15 off your order.

Click this link to be entered for a free Smile Brilliant Kit *($139 value). Simply enter your name and email and you are entered to win! www.smilebrilliant.com/g/styleandlife

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If you are looking to incorporate teeth whitening into your beauty routine, try the Smile Brilliant whitening system…I am confident you will be pleased with the results!

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Bisous,

Rebecca

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*Giveaway is open for two weeks. Entries must enter through the above link to be counted. Giveaway is for $139 credit- and is open to USA, UK, Canada, and Australia residents. All entries due 11.25.17.

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How to Whiten Your Teeth

f. 11.2017