Happy Thanksgiving Big Girls (well at least for the Americans)! And happy Thursday for everyone else!
I know we have been slacking with the blogs lately, just bear with us, we're going to keep cranking them out, pinky promise.
On to today's topic: body shapers.
I know that we have all seen those infomercials for the Kymaro Body Shaper. The one that proclaims it makes you look 10-20 pounds slimmer. And we all contemplated picking up the phone right then.
A few weeks ago I was walking through the store and saw this product on the shelf. And for $30 bucks I decided to try it.
Now this wasn't the first body shaper that I have had. I've had one or two in the past, but they weren't like this one.
When I first slipped into this shaper, I was amazed. More than amazed. It slimmed me, it put things in the right place, it made my posture amazing, it hugged me, and to top it off it felt amazing on.
I expected it to be cheap and to not work at all. But I was pleasantly surprised.
Now, I am not shamelessly advertising this shaper, I wish I was because then they would pay me.
But, Big Girls, there are tons of shapers out there for us to try.
They have them at Lane Bryant, it's called Spanx. Avenue has them, called avenueBody. Catherine's has them too.
If you search online there are endless possibilities to find one that you like.
For example, you can go to barenecessities.com or herroom.com.
Ever tried a body shaper? Still a little confused about them?
I'll explain a bit more.
The function of a body shaper is to move your "extra" stuff around to give you more shape, and to smooth you out.
Most of them are made from spandex and/or other strechy polyester materials.
There are body shapers for just your upper half, and bottom half, and they can also come in a one piece to shape both your top and bottom.
They really do work very well. And they give you amazing shape. Even though we all do have shape already, shapers give your more definition and a totally smooth look. And nobody can argue with better posture.
Anda and I highly recommend investing in one. Wear it with your favorite outfit and see how much more fabulous you look!
We are always here for you at prtali@yahoo.com. We welcome all of your comments, or questions
Look lively Big Girls! The holiday season is here, don't forget to treat yourself!
Be fabulous, Pauline
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
What's In Your Wallet... er, Purse?
Do you carry a purse? I bet you do. Purses are great, they really are, and like Big Girls they come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and textures.
So, what kind of bag do you carry? Do you carry a clutch or a gigantic bag? What about one of those chic, across the chest numbers? Do you carry just the basics or are you, as my Dad likes to say, carrying everything but the kitchen sink in your purse?
I have three main bags: a glitzy little number that wears like a messenger bag, a hobo bag that slings low across my body, and an Andy Warhol money bag that can hold a full change of clothes/makeup bag/pair of sneakers/ two books.
As I write this, i'm using my hobo bag. It's pretty much the most practical purse I own (think suede with brassy tones and purple inside). Since I have to lug this bag around campus and up stairs and down stairs and everywhere in between, I try not to carry too much stuff that isn't necessary. I fail a lot with that reasoning, though, because my belief is that I never know what I may need on any given day. Ok, so what I'm trying to say is that I have a whole lot of crap in my bag.
So, what's in my bag?
1) My wallet. I know the whole fad is geared towards those slender wallets, but after breaking my third one (my purse isn’t the only thing I pack full of junk), I decided that I needed something a little more practical but it also couldn’t be reminiscent of my Nanny’s wallet. Simple solution: Poketo. Don’t know it? Look it up at www.poketo.com Poketo is a design studio founded by a husband and wife team, Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung (totally cute couple!) They showcase artists through everyday wares. I opted for multicolored check wallet because it holds so much stuff. And yeah, my wallet is full. We’ve got license, social security card, debit card, insurance car (both health and auto), two library print cards, student ID, an Office Depot card, Hot Topic card, Starbucks gift card, four receipts, and $9.81. Oh, and a check book.
2) A camera. You never know when you’re going to need one. If you’re going to carry your camera around, though, make sure you have a nice camera bag for it. I, again, chose a Poketo camera bag (it has owls on it!)
3) A wide variety of pens and one pencil.
4) A bottle of Cherry Blossom lotion from Bath and Body Works.
5) Nina Ricci perfume
6) Tampons.
7) Those really cute little bottles of Tylenol and Advil.
8) Bobby pins and some rubber bands.
9) Some spree and suckers.
10) 9 different kinds of lip gloss/balm. Is that a bit over the top? Sure. But it’s just how I do.
11) Mints.
12) A small bag that I put whatever makeup I’m wearing that day in for quick touchups. Currently: Hard Candy Sheer Envy primer, NP palette, eyeliner and mascara.
13) A mix cd and letter from my BFF, Pauline!
14) A nail file/ clippers.
15) My cell phone and a pair of white earbuds.
16) A spring loaded weighted baton. You know, in case, someone ever tries to attack me.
17) Various receipts that have somehow managed to escape my wallet.
18) A USB shaped like an orange lego.
19) A pair of gloves so that my little fingers don’t freeze off.
20) An extremely cute hat that has ear flaps. Seriously, I’m not one for those kind of hats usually, but this was knitted one and I had to have it.
21) A bottle of Yankee Candle Hand Sanitizer in apple.
Now, you may ask, what is Pauline lugging around?
1) Phone.
2) Wallet.
3) Perfume.
4) Random monetary notes
5) Change
6) At least two lighters that I could never find when I smoked and now I don’t, I pull them out every time.
7) Two kinds of mints
8) A pack of gum
9) Receipts.
10) At least two sets of keys.
11) Hand lotion
12) Gloves
13) Germ-X
14) Deck of cards for impromptu card games with strangers.
15) A phone charger
16) Tampons.
17) And when it starts to snow, I’ll be throwing a hat in there, too!
Ok, cluttered. Both of us, I know, but we’re female and that excuse enough. But what do you really need in your bag?
First, let’s start with the bag. It needs to be cute. It needs to compliment you. Have you ever seen those little tiny girls lugging around HUGE bags? Kind of silly looking, right? Or what about the Big Girl with the itty bitty purse? Looks like she stole her little sisters bag, right? You try on your clothes, so you should also try on your bag. That’s how it works.
Now, cut through your crap. What do you really need? What are your bare essentials? It’s hard, I know, I tried it. I dumped my bag out and decided that I would put in what I absolutely needed.
The wallet went back in, of course, but then I took it back out because there were things in my wallet that I really didn’t need. The receipts could be filed away, so those were the first to go. (Random insert: It’s getting to be that season again. I hope all of you feel generous in any way possible. Publix has a great Food For Sharing program going on and you can buy a bundle starting at right under $6. When you donate, save your receipts and you can write it off on your taxes!) One of the print cards was from two years ago and hadn’t seen any action in a loooong time,. Trash. Everything else I needed to keep. Ok. Wallet back in bag.
The gloves, hat, and hand sanitizer went back in next. It is that season. A pack of mints, two pens, Tylenol, and perfume. Lotion, too. The baton, just in case.
There. Bare essentials. That’s all I needed in my purse.
And then I panicked and put everything I had originally had in my bag back in it. Plus a scarf.
Good grief.
Can you do it, though? Are you stronger willed than I?
Even if the answer is no, I still hope you have a fabulous bag to put all your things and the kitchen sink in.
And remember, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL, DAMN IT!”
Xoxox
Anda.
Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear from you! prtali@yahoo.com
Ps- Be on the lookout for our Holiday Guide blog!
So, what kind of bag do you carry? Do you carry a clutch or a gigantic bag? What about one of those chic, across the chest numbers? Do you carry just the basics or are you, as my Dad likes to say, carrying everything but the kitchen sink in your purse?
I have three main bags: a glitzy little number that wears like a messenger bag, a hobo bag that slings low across my body, and an Andy Warhol money bag that can hold a full change of clothes/makeup bag/pair of sneakers/ two books.
As I write this, i'm using my hobo bag. It's pretty much the most practical purse I own (think suede with brassy tones and purple inside). Since I have to lug this bag around campus and up stairs and down stairs and everywhere in between, I try not to carry too much stuff that isn't necessary. I fail a lot with that reasoning, though, because my belief is that I never know what I may need on any given day. Ok, so what I'm trying to say is that I have a whole lot of crap in my bag.
So, what's in my bag?
1) My wallet. I know the whole fad is geared towards those slender wallets, but after breaking my third one (my purse isn’t the only thing I pack full of junk), I decided that I needed something a little more practical but it also couldn’t be reminiscent of my Nanny’s wallet. Simple solution: Poketo. Don’t know it? Look it up at www.poketo.com Poketo is a design studio founded by a husband and wife team, Ted Vadakan and Angie Myung (totally cute couple!) They showcase artists through everyday wares. I opted for multicolored check wallet because it holds so much stuff. And yeah, my wallet is full. We’ve got license, social security card, debit card, insurance car (both health and auto), two library print cards, student ID, an Office Depot card, Hot Topic card, Starbucks gift card, four receipts, and $9.81. Oh, and a check book.
2) A camera. You never know when you’re going to need one. If you’re going to carry your camera around, though, make sure you have a nice camera bag for it. I, again, chose a Poketo camera bag (it has owls on it!)
3) A wide variety of pens and one pencil.
4) A bottle of Cherry Blossom lotion from Bath and Body Works.
5) Nina Ricci perfume
6) Tampons.
7) Those really cute little bottles of Tylenol and Advil.
8) Bobby pins and some rubber bands.
9) Some spree and suckers.
10) 9 different kinds of lip gloss/balm. Is that a bit over the top? Sure. But it’s just how I do.
11) Mints.
12) A small bag that I put whatever makeup I’m wearing that day in for quick touchups. Currently: Hard Candy Sheer Envy primer, NP palette, eyeliner and mascara.
13) A mix cd and letter from my BFF, Pauline!
14) A nail file/ clippers.
15) My cell phone and a pair of white earbuds.
16) A spring loaded weighted baton. You know, in case, someone ever tries to attack me.
17) Various receipts that have somehow managed to escape my wallet.
18) A USB shaped like an orange lego.
19) A pair of gloves so that my little fingers don’t freeze off.
20) An extremely cute hat that has ear flaps. Seriously, I’m not one for those kind of hats usually, but this was knitted one and I had to have it.
21) A bottle of Yankee Candle Hand Sanitizer in apple.
Now, you may ask, what is Pauline lugging around?
1) Phone.
2) Wallet.
3) Perfume.
4) Random monetary notes
5) Change
6) At least two lighters that I could never find when I smoked and now I don’t, I pull them out every time.
7) Two kinds of mints
8) A pack of gum
9) Receipts.
10) At least two sets of keys.
11) Hand lotion
12) Gloves
13) Germ-X
14) Deck of cards for impromptu card games with strangers.
15) A phone charger
16) Tampons.
17) And when it starts to snow, I’ll be throwing a hat in there, too!
Ok, cluttered. Both of us, I know, but we’re female and that excuse enough. But what do you really need in your bag?
First, let’s start with the bag. It needs to be cute. It needs to compliment you. Have you ever seen those little tiny girls lugging around HUGE bags? Kind of silly looking, right? Or what about the Big Girl with the itty bitty purse? Looks like she stole her little sisters bag, right? You try on your clothes, so you should also try on your bag. That’s how it works.
Now, cut through your crap. What do you really need? What are your bare essentials? It’s hard, I know, I tried it. I dumped my bag out and decided that I would put in what I absolutely needed.
The wallet went back in, of course, but then I took it back out because there were things in my wallet that I really didn’t need. The receipts could be filed away, so those were the first to go. (Random insert: It’s getting to be that season again. I hope all of you feel generous in any way possible. Publix has a great Food For Sharing program going on and you can buy a bundle starting at right under $6. When you donate, save your receipts and you can write it off on your taxes!) One of the print cards was from two years ago and hadn’t seen any action in a loooong time,. Trash. Everything else I needed to keep. Ok. Wallet back in bag.
The gloves, hat, and hand sanitizer went back in next. It is that season. A pack of mints, two pens, Tylenol, and perfume. Lotion, too. The baton, just in case.
There. Bare essentials. That’s all I needed in my purse.
And then I panicked and put everything I had originally had in my bag back in it. Plus a scarf.
Good grief.
Can you do it, though? Are you stronger willed than I?
Even if the answer is no, I still hope you have a fabulous bag to put all your things and the kitchen sink in.
And remember, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL, DAMN IT!”
Xoxox
Anda.
Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear from you! prtali@yahoo.com
Ps- Be on the lookout for our Holiday Guide blog!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Halloween
I was having lunch with a friend earlier today and we were discussing out Halloween costumes. At one point in the conversation, he looks at me and says, “I just hope I’m not going overboard.”
My first reaction was to be horrified. Halloween is the perfect time to go overboard and let loose. Wear a wig, create a new persona, be who you want to be. That’s why Halloween is my favorite holiday (that and the fact that Halloween is indeed my birthday. I’ll be 21 and, yes, I will be accepting birthday wishes all week!) But then I decided that there are provisions to the whole concept of letting loose, especially for us Big Girls. A friend of a friend decided she was going as a “slut” for Halloween. Her costume consisted of a bustier, thong, and fishnets. I kindly asked her where she was going to store her fat for the night. Harsh, true, but she ultimately decided not to wear the “costume” and picked something different.
So, here’s a guideline for Halloween costumes.
1) Some things are ok to wear on Halloween. Take this as an example: I hate shiny leggings. Hate them. But for Halloween, I’ll wear them because nothing says Rocky Horror “Sweet Transvestite” quite like shiny leggings. Not matching is totally acceptable on Halloween, too.
2) But don’t think that Halloween gives you a free pass to let it all hang out. Because while it may be something you don’t wear everyday, giving your friends/coworkers an eyeful of what you have going on underneath your clothes is not something you can magically erase.
3) Just because Lady GaGa wore it, doesn’t mean you should. Please refrain from covering yourself with slabs of meat.
4) Ironic costumes are a no-no. I never really understood the point of a big girl/guy wearing a cow/sumo/fat ballerina costume. Story time: I was at work the other day and we do, unfortunately, have the fat ballerina costume. If you’ve never seen this costume atrocity, let me describe it for you: it’s made out of this plasticy material. Flesh colored arms and legs, pink leotard, gold tutu. You fill it up with air. Get the picture? Ok, back to the story. This girl (big but not fabulous) comes in with all her little skinny friends and she BUYS THIS COSTUME. Guess what? It’s sad, not ironic, if you don’t need the air pump to fill out the costume.
5) Wear make-up. And lots of it. If you’re one of the ones who never wears make-up, then Halloween should be your time to do so. I love it. Pink/red/lime green eyeshadow and lots of it. Bright red/black/purple/grey lipstick and lots of it. Fake tattoos and fake eyelashes. Wigs! Wear a wig! All of it’s good and fun and you should enjoy it!
So, whether you decide to be a monster or a witch or a punk rocker, make sure that you’re having fun with it, that you look rad as can be and that above all you won’t be embarrassed when people post pictures of you on face book.
Happy Haunting, my dears.
And, as always, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL, DAMN IT!”
Xoxox
Anda
Questions? Comments? Birthday wishes? ;)
Prtali@yahoo.com
My first reaction was to be horrified. Halloween is the perfect time to go overboard and let loose. Wear a wig, create a new persona, be who you want to be. That’s why Halloween is my favorite holiday (that and the fact that Halloween is indeed my birthday. I’ll be 21 and, yes, I will be accepting birthday wishes all week!) But then I decided that there are provisions to the whole concept of letting loose, especially for us Big Girls. A friend of a friend decided she was going as a “slut” for Halloween. Her costume consisted of a bustier, thong, and fishnets. I kindly asked her where she was going to store her fat for the night. Harsh, true, but she ultimately decided not to wear the “costume” and picked something different.
So, here’s a guideline for Halloween costumes.
1) Some things are ok to wear on Halloween. Take this as an example: I hate shiny leggings. Hate them. But for Halloween, I’ll wear them because nothing says Rocky Horror “Sweet Transvestite” quite like shiny leggings. Not matching is totally acceptable on Halloween, too.
2) But don’t think that Halloween gives you a free pass to let it all hang out. Because while it may be something you don’t wear everyday, giving your friends/coworkers an eyeful of what you have going on underneath your clothes is not something you can magically erase.
3) Just because Lady GaGa wore it, doesn’t mean you should. Please refrain from covering yourself with slabs of meat.
4) Ironic costumes are a no-no. I never really understood the point of a big girl/guy wearing a cow/sumo/fat ballerina costume. Story time: I was at work the other day and we do, unfortunately, have the fat ballerina costume. If you’ve never seen this costume atrocity, let me describe it for you: it’s made out of this plasticy material. Flesh colored arms and legs, pink leotard, gold tutu. You fill it up with air. Get the picture? Ok, back to the story. This girl (big but not fabulous) comes in with all her little skinny friends and she BUYS THIS COSTUME. Guess what? It’s sad, not ironic, if you don’t need the air pump to fill out the costume.
5) Wear make-up. And lots of it. If you’re one of the ones who never wears make-up, then Halloween should be your time to do so. I love it. Pink/red/lime green eyeshadow and lots of it. Bright red/black/purple/grey lipstick and lots of it. Fake tattoos and fake eyelashes. Wigs! Wear a wig! All of it’s good and fun and you should enjoy it!
So, whether you decide to be a monster or a witch or a punk rocker, make sure that you’re having fun with it, that you look rad as can be and that above all you won’t be embarrassed when people post pictures of you on face book.
Happy Haunting, my dears.
And, as always, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL, DAMN IT!”
Xoxox
Anda
Questions? Comments? Birthday wishes? ;)
Prtali@yahoo.com
Thursday, October 14, 2010
We LOVE To Shop!
It's true. Big Girls love to shop just as much as anyone else.
This is a list of all the places that Anda and I love to shop at.
1. I absolutely adore Lane Bryant. I go there for jeans, leggins, shirts, bras, panties and everything else in between. Plus they carry Seven apparel, and they recently started carrying DKNY.
http://www.lanebryant.com/
2. Avenue. You can usually find something good in this store. Anda likes their skinny jeans, leggins, and panties. Plus they have amazing sales!
http://www.avenue,com/
3. Torrid. They have some really really cute clothes here. It is more geared to the younger generations, and isn't so big on career wear.
http://www.torrid.com/
4. Old Navy. I love Old Navy. They go up to a XXL in stores, but they have sizes 16-30 online, and they offer free shipping. They have some really cute stuff, and it's affordable!
http://www.oldnavy.com/
5. Target. Anda and I both love love love Target. They have a pretty good selection of plus size clothes to choose from. Just be careful when you go in and look, because even though they have some good stuff, they also have some very bad stuff, that no one should be wearing. They also have awesome bags and scarves. Great for accessory shopping!
http://www.target.com/
6. I love Burlington Coat Factory too. You have to look to find something perfect, but when you find it it is pure bliss!
7. Ross. Anda loves Ross for bags. They have awesome deals on bags, and really cute ones too.
8. Hot Topic. If you like music and you want everyone else to know it, go pick up some band shirts from here. They also have really awesome accessories, and bags too.
http://www.hottopic.com/
9. Walgreens/Local drug store. You can pick up all of your everyday needs from these stores. Its convenient and easier than going to a huge store to pick up everyday essentials.
10. Ulta. I love make up stores. Plain and simple. I would live in Ulta if I could. They have every kind of make up that you could imagine, plus fragrances, and a hair salon. And they have an awesome rewards program!
http://www.ulta.com/
As professional Big Girls, we have figured out what places have the best fashions for us. When you shop at these places they don't disappoint! We love them, and we hope that you will too!
xox- Pauline
Need help? Have suggestions? Write us!
prtali@yahoo.com We'd love to hea from you!
This is a list of all the places that Anda and I love to shop at.
1. I absolutely adore Lane Bryant. I go there for jeans, leggins, shirts, bras, panties and everything else in between. Plus they carry Seven apparel, and they recently started carrying DKNY.
http://www.lanebryant.com/
2. Avenue. You can usually find something good in this store. Anda likes their skinny jeans, leggins, and panties. Plus they have amazing sales!
http://www.avenue,com/
3. Torrid. They have some really really cute clothes here. It is more geared to the younger generations, and isn't so big on career wear.
http://www.torrid.com/
4. Old Navy. I love Old Navy. They go up to a XXL in stores, but they have sizes 16-30 online, and they offer free shipping. They have some really cute stuff, and it's affordable!
http://www.oldnavy.com/
5. Target. Anda and I both love love love Target. They have a pretty good selection of plus size clothes to choose from. Just be careful when you go in and look, because even though they have some good stuff, they also have some very bad stuff, that no one should be wearing. They also have awesome bags and scarves. Great for accessory shopping!
http://www.target.com/
6. I love Burlington Coat Factory too. You have to look to find something perfect, but when you find it it is pure bliss!
7. Ross. Anda loves Ross for bags. They have awesome deals on bags, and really cute ones too.
8. Hot Topic. If you like music and you want everyone else to know it, go pick up some band shirts from here. They also have really awesome accessories, and bags too.
http://www.hottopic.com/
9. Walgreens/Local drug store. You can pick up all of your everyday needs from these stores. Its convenient and easier than going to a huge store to pick up everyday essentials.
10. Ulta. I love make up stores. Plain and simple. I would live in Ulta if I could. They have every kind of make up that you could imagine, plus fragrances, and a hair salon. And they have an awesome rewards program!
http://www.ulta.com/
As professional Big Girls, we have figured out what places have the best fashions for us. When you shop at these places they don't disappoint! We love them, and we hope that you will too!
xox- Pauline
Need help? Have suggestions? Write us!
prtali@yahoo.com We'd love to hea from you!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Own Your Style
The purpose of our entire blog is to guide. While I hope that you follow our guide, I also hope that you own your own style. Not everything that we write about (fashion-wise) will work for you or you just may not feel comfortable wearing it (I have a friend who refuses to wear leggings).
Take this as an example: I’ve always thought that certain shades of navy (yes… there are different shades!) and black work well together. Most people will tell you that they clash, though, so I’ve always avoided wearing the two together. Until last week. Last week, I picked up an older edition of O Magazine, and Oprah’s Creative Director Adam told me that he thought thinking navy and black went together meant I had a real sense of style. Ok, he wasn’t talking to me directly, but those were his words. I still shudder at the thought of black and brown together, but now I feel free to wear my cute navy top with some cute black leggings. (I would like to say that I think black on top and navy on bottom looks awkward.)
Speaking of leggings, my dears, I think we should set a few ground rules. Especially since it’s fall (YAY!) and fall is definitely my favorite time of year to wear leggings.
1) Just say no to… spandex. Your leggings should NOT be made of spandex. Try suede or denim or cloth or nylon, anything but spandex.
2) No thick leggings. Hello! Leggings give shape. Why would you want to wear thick leggings that add bulk?
3) Do not treat your leggings as pants because they are not pants.
4) Longer tops work with leggings. Longer tops cover your butt, hips, and tummy.
5) Proper footwear. Flats, low heels, boots, and yes, even a pair of converse (I’m going to be that punk rock kid until I die) work well with leggings. Know what doesn’t? High heels. Can we say trailer trash? Thought so. Olivia Newton John is the only person who could ever pull this look off.
Now, I have to tell you about my MUST HAVE item for October. SCARVES! I love scarves. Why? Let me count the reasons. They pull an outfit together, they keep your neck warm, they add color to a dreary outfit, they cover hickeys, double chins, and anything else you might want to camouflage.
Pauline’s MUST HAVE item for October is the ever warm and comfortable and stylish fleece jacket!
What about those days that aren’t so cold? Try a nice light sweater. This past spring Avenue was having a HUGE sale on winter apparel. I’m not usually one to buy three seasons in advance, but I saw this completely cute sweater (think long, light beige, very versatile) with an even cuter price ($11 marked down from $45!). The best part? I can wear my tank tops underneath because I’m not quite ready to give them up just yet.
Another fall favorite? A blazer. Not your father’s blazer, mind you, but a woman’s fitted blazer.
I love hoodies as well, just make sure it’s the right kind of hoodie. Don’t go for the thick, boyish looking ones. I’m a fan of the t-shirt material hoodies because they’re light, come in a great array of colors and add little to no bulk.
So, here’s your guide.
Mix it up. (My blazer has My Chemical Romance patches on it.)
Own your style.
Remember, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL, DAMN IT!”
Xoxox,
Anda
Questions? Comments? We’d love to hear from you!
Prtali@yahoo.com
Take this as an example: I’ve always thought that certain shades of navy (yes… there are different shades!) and black work well together. Most people will tell you that they clash, though, so I’ve always avoided wearing the two together. Until last week. Last week, I picked up an older edition of O Magazine, and Oprah’s Creative Director Adam told me that he thought thinking navy and black went together meant I had a real sense of style. Ok, he wasn’t talking to me directly, but those were his words. I still shudder at the thought of black and brown together, but now I feel free to wear my cute navy top with some cute black leggings. (I would like to say that I think black on top and navy on bottom looks awkward.)
Speaking of leggings, my dears, I think we should set a few ground rules. Especially since it’s fall (YAY!) and fall is definitely my favorite time of year to wear leggings.
1) Just say no to… spandex. Your leggings should NOT be made of spandex. Try suede or denim or cloth or nylon, anything but spandex.
2) No thick leggings. Hello! Leggings give shape. Why would you want to wear thick leggings that add bulk?
3) Do not treat your leggings as pants because they are not pants.
4) Longer tops work with leggings. Longer tops cover your butt, hips, and tummy.
5) Proper footwear. Flats, low heels, boots, and yes, even a pair of converse (I’m going to be that punk rock kid until I die) work well with leggings. Know what doesn’t? High heels. Can we say trailer trash? Thought so. Olivia Newton John is the only person who could ever pull this look off.
Now, I have to tell you about my MUST HAVE item for October. SCARVES! I love scarves. Why? Let me count the reasons. They pull an outfit together, they keep your neck warm, they add color to a dreary outfit, they cover hickeys, double chins, and anything else you might want to camouflage.
Pauline’s MUST HAVE item for October is the ever warm and comfortable and stylish fleece jacket!
What about those days that aren’t so cold? Try a nice light sweater. This past spring Avenue was having a HUGE sale on winter apparel. I’m not usually one to buy three seasons in advance, but I saw this completely cute sweater (think long, light beige, very versatile) with an even cuter price ($11 marked down from $45!). The best part? I can wear my tank tops underneath because I’m not quite ready to give them up just yet.
Another fall favorite? A blazer. Not your father’s blazer, mind you, but a woman’s fitted blazer.
I love hoodies as well, just make sure it’s the right kind of hoodie. Don’t go for the thick, boyish looking ones. I’m a fan of the t-shirt material hoodies because they’re light, come in a great array of colors and add little to no bulk.
So, here’s your guide.
Mix it up. (My blazer has My Chemical Romance patches on it.)
Own your style.
Remember, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL, DAMN IT!”
Xoxox,
Anda
Questions? Comments? We’d love to hear from you!
Prtali@yahoo.com
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Must Have IT!
Must Have IT!
If you’re anything like me, you have a problem with impulse buying. I know I do, especially when it comes to new skin/hair/nail/makeup products. My bathroom cabinets (and a few storage bins in my room) are full of products I bought on impulse, used a couple times, deemed them crap, and put in a box for “later inspection”. Sound familiar? I’ve compiled a list of things that I firmly believe you must-have (and Pauline made one, too!) I’m not saying that you should never buy any other items because there is always room to try new things, but these should always be in your cabinet and should always be your backup plan when the new items turn out to be complete garbage.
Anda’s List of Must-Haves
Skin Care
1) Anything from Neutrogena. Seriously. I’m a huge fan of their “rapid action” products. I’ve used all sorts of products and none of them ever worked for me until I started using Neutrogena. (on a side note, if your face is naturally oily… you don’t need a moisturizer!)
2) Everyone needs, AT A MINIMUM, two different kinds of lotion. One that locks in moisture after a shower and at night before you go to bed, and one that smells nice for during the day use. Since I’m a tattoo freak, I’m a huge fan Aveeno. It’s fragrance free, so it is especially good if you have sensitive skin. For the other lotion, try something from Bath and Body Works (I really love their summer collection of coconut based lotions). Don’t want to spend a lot? Suave has just come out with a line of lotions comparable to the Bath and Body Works line.
3) Bikini Zone shave gel. Use it EVERYWHERE you shave. Underarms, legs, wherever, wherever. Soaps dry out your skin when you’re shaving. Bikini Zone contains no soap and it aloe based. Result? Smoother, less irritated legs.
4) Bio Oil. It works on stretch marks, scars, uneven skin and dark circles. In a clinical study, 90% saw improved skin. I’m using it myself on some scars, and it really works!
5) A good moisturizer. Pick your brand. Look at the ingredients! If you have acne prone skin, avoid anything that is oil or petroleum based.
HAIR
1) Neutrogena makes a great once a week anti-residue shampoo (no, this does not mean you only have to wash your hair once a week!) that removes hair product build-up. I usually wash my hair with it on Sunday so that my hair is a clean palette for the week.
2) A good shampoo/conditioner. Again, pick your brand. Don’t be afraid to mix it up either! I personally like Herbal Essence’s Tousle Me Softly shampoo and Coconut Milk conditioner. Here’s my spill on why you shouldn’t buy overly expensive shampoo: HELLO! You’re washing it out of your hair! Save your money for good hair product.
3) Such as Frederic Fekkai’s Glossing Crème. It’s made with olive oil and makes your hair ridiculously soft and sleek.
4) A solid hairbrush. You’d be surprised what the right hairbrush can do for you.
5) If you plan to put your hair up in any kind of ponytail make sure you’re using the right kind of hair bands. Scunci has this pretty amazing line of hair bands that are metal-free and no-pull. They’re made of soft silicone and is really great if you have a sensitive scalp.
6) Dry shampoo. Why? Because if you’re like me, sometimes you overdo it with the Fekkai Crème and have no time to shower again. If you have dark hair make sure the spray says that it’s INVISIBLE or you’re going to end up with white powder all over your gorgeous locks.
7) A cute headband. I always feel like I’m channeling Blair from Gossip Girl when I slip on a headband, and that is not a bad thing!
BEAUTY
This one is tricky because not everyone likes make-up and not everyone looks good in make-up. But here’s a tip for those of you who do wear make-up: Less can be beautiful. I really can not stomach the sight of women who appear to be wearing half a bottle of foundation. You don’t need that much! If your skin is so bad that you feel you need to cake on foundation, then you actually don’t need it. Instead you need to focus on letting your skin breathe and heal. Foundation will clog pores. Another tip? Wash your make-up off EVERY night before bed. I know, especially with girls around my age that after a night of going out you really just want to pass out. It only takes a few seconds to wash your face. Plus, no one looks good when they wake up with raccoon eyes.
If you wear make-up:
1) A good foundation/ eyeshadow primer. This creates a barrier between your skin and the gunk you’re putting on it. I admit that I don’t use a foundation primer because I’m a loose powder kind of girl because I can’t abide by a heavy feeling foundation. Pauline suggests Smashbox for your primer and the Lorac brand for both your actual foundation and eyeshadow primer. I’d also like to point out that a lot of common brands are making primers. L’Oreal (whom I love love love) has come out with a line of “Hollywood Secrets” and their primers are pretty awesome.
2) A solid eyeliner. No one looks good with overly smudged eyeliner. Get an eyeliner that defines AND STAYS. Pauline’s pick- Urban Decay. Anda’s pick- I’m a huge fan of Cover Girl’s new Eyelight collection.
3) Fabulous mascara. Don’t buy the cheap stuff, trust me. The cheap stuff damages your eyelashes. I’m having a love affair with L’Oreal’s Collagen Boost mascara. Try it. Love it.
4) Cotton swabs/ baby wipes. Cotton swaps fix little make-up mishaps. Baby wipes take away make-up. It doesn’t get any easier than that.
IF YOU DON’T WEAR MAKE-UP
A good lip balm. If you want to go for something with a splash of color, try Nivea’s line of lip balm.
Also, just a little side note… WEAR PERFUME! Seriously. Even a light body spray goes a long way.
And wear deodorant. I mean it.
So, I know you want to ask us questions. I know you do! Send us questions, comments, random life rants! We want to hear from you! Prtali@yahoo.com
Remember, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL DAMN IT.”
Xoxox
Anda
If you’re anything like me, you have a problem with impulse buying. I know I do, especially when it comes to new skin/hair/nail/makeup products. My bathroom cabinets (and a few storage bins in my room) are full of products I bought on impulse, used a couple times, deemed them crap, and put in a box for “later inspection”. Sound familiar? I’ve compiled a list of things that I firmly believe you must-have (and Pauline made one, too!) I’m not saying that you should never buy any other items because there is always room to try new things, but these should always be in your cabinet and should always be your backup plan when the new items turn out to be complete garbage.
Anda’s List of Must-Haves
Skin Care
1) Anything from Neutrogena. Seriously. I’m a huge fan of their “rapid action” products. I’ve used all sorts of products and none of them ever worked for me until I started using Neutrogena. (on a side note, if your face is naturally oily… you don’t need a moisturizer!)
2) Everyone needs, AT A MINIMUM, two different kinds of lotion. One that locks in moisture after a shower and at night before you go to bed, and one that smells nice for during the day use. Since I’m a tattoo freak, I’m a huge fan Aveeno. It’s fragrance free, so it is especially good if you have sensitive skin. For the other lotion, try something from Bath and Body Works (I really love their summer collection of coconut based lotions). Don’t want to spend a lot? Suave has just come out with a line of lotions comparable to the Bath and Body Works line.
3) Bikini Zone shave gel. Use it EVERYWHERE you shave. Underarms, legs, wherever, wherever. Soaps dry out your skin when you’re shaving. Bikini Zone contains no soap and it aloe based. Result? Smoother, less irritated legs.
4) Bio Oil. It works on stretch marks, scars, uneven skin and dark circles. In a clinical study, 90% saw improved skin. I’m using it myself on some scars, and it really works!
5) A good moisturizer. Pick your brand. Look at the ingredients! If you have acne prone skin, avoid anything that is oil or petroleum based.
HAIR
1) Neutrogena makes a great once a week anti-residue shampoo (no, this does not mean you only have to wash your hair once a week!) that removes hair product build-up. I usually wash my hair with it on Sunday so that my hair is a clean palette for the week.
2) A good shampoo/conditioner. Again, pick your brand. Don’t be afraid to mix it up either! I personally like Herbal Essence’s Tousle Me Softly shampoo and Coconut Milk conditioner. Here’s my spill on why you shouldn’t buy overly expensive shampoo: HELLO! You’re washing it out of your hair! Save your money for good hair product.
3) Such as Frederic Fekkai’s Glossing Crème. It’s made with olive oil and makes your hair ridiculously soft and sleek.
4) A solid hairbrush. You’d be surprised what the right hairbrush can do for you.
5) If you plan to put your hair up in any kind of ponytail make sure you’re using the right kind of hair bands. Scunci has this pretty amazing line of hair bands that are metal-free and no-pull. They’re made of soft silicone and is really great if you have a sensitive scalp.
6) Dry shampoo. Why? Because if you’re like me, sometimes you overdo it with the Fekkai Crème and have no time to shower again. If you have dark hair make sure the spray says that it’s INVISIBLE or you’re going to end up with white powder all over your gorgeous locks.
7) A cute headband. I always feel like I’m channeling Blair from Gossip Girl when I slip on a headband, and that is not a bad thing!
BEAUTY
This one is tricky because not everyone likes make-up and not everyone looks good in make-up. But here’s a tip for those of you who do wear make-up: Less can be beautiful. I really can not stomach the sight of women who appear to be wearing half a bottle of foundation. You don’t need that much! If your skin is so bad that you feel you need to cake on foundation, then you actually don’t need it. Instead you need to focus on letting your skin breathe and heal. Foundation will clog pores. Another tip? Wash your make-up off EVERY night before bed. I know, especially with girls around my age that after a night of going out you really just want to pass out. It only takes a few seconds to wash your face. Plus, no one looks good when they wake up with raccoon eyes.
If you wear make-up:
1) A good foundation/ eyeshadow primer. This creates a barrier between your skin and the gunk you’re putting on it. I admit that I don’t use a foundation primer because I’m a loose powder kind of girl because I can’t abide by a heavy feeling foundation. Pauline suggests Smashbox for your primer and the Lorac brand for both your actual foundation and eyeshadow primer. I’d also like to point out that a lot of common brands are making primers. L’Oreal (whom I love love love) has come out with a line of “Hollywood Secrets” and their primers are pretty awesome.
2) A solid eyeliner. No one looks good with overly smudged eyeliner. Get an eyeliner that defines AND STAYS. Pauline’s pick- Urban Decay. Anda’s pick- I’m a huge fan of Cover Girl’s new Eyelight collection.
3) Fabulous mascara. Don’t buy the cheap stuff, trust me. The cheap stuff damages your eyelashes. I’m having a love affair with L’Oreal’s Collagen Boost mascara. Try it. Love it.
4) Cotton swabs/ baby wipes. Cotton swaps fix little make-up mishaps. Baby wipes take away make-up. It doesn’t get any easier than that.
IF YOU DON’T WEAR MAKE-UP
A good lip balm. If you want to go for something with a splash of color, try Nivea’s line of lip balm.
Also, just a little side note… WEAR PERFUME! Seriously. Even a light body spray goes a long way.
And wear deodorant. I mean it.
So, I know you want to ask us questions. I know you do! Send us questions, comments, random life rants! We want to hear from you! Prtali@yahoo.com
Remember, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL DAMN IT.”
Xoxox
Anda
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Your Boyfriend Is An Accesory
This blog is going to deal with your greatest, and sometimes most troublesome, accessory. Your boyfriend.
I hope all of you out there are either happily single or have found a man that makes you happy and treats you like the fabulous big girl you are.
You know what makes me mad? When I see a beautiful, stylish, fabulous girl with a guy who looks like he A) has been playing in the mud, B) is pretty sure Zest is something you use to spice up the chicken, or C) feels that he’s with a big girl so he doesn’t have to try to look good because she’ll stay with no matter what. (Sadly, C is pretty much a reality when dealing with a girl who has no self-esteem.) Think of your boyfriend as a staple in your wardrobe of life- he should compliment your changes and personality and should look good while doing it.
The problem? Some guys are resistant to change and some of you ladies are lazy. I know it takes a lot to mold a guy, trust me I do. But that’s where it gets fun. Think of your man as a vintage bag. Someone else has owned him at one point, they might have even messed him up, and now it’s your turn to wipe the dirt away and buff out all the scuff marks.
I like to think of my boyfriend as a pair of Christian Louboutin’s that another girl left out in the rain. When we first met, I knew he’d be a lot of work. He was tall and lean, had great hair and teeth, and knew that he could melt a girl with his smile. Problem? His clothes. His last girlfriend had been some freak show who thought that boys only looked good in those god-awful Tripp pants and black t-shirts. I like to think that he was young and impressionable (she was older than him) rather than he actually liked those stupid pants. Honest to God, the pants almost ruined everything. Silly, but true. I did give him a chance and it turned out to be one of the best things I ever did.
But those pants had to go.
I didn’t charge in and throw out his whole wardrobe, and you shouldn’t try to do it either. Men hate change, it’s a fact. Do as I did and gradually introduce new things to him. The first thing I bought him was a few pairs of jeans, regular fit and skinny. Then we started going shopping together. At first, he hated going anywhere that wasn’t Hot Topic, but I finally got him to go into a few different stores. It took me a week to convince him to wear a V-neck, but when he finally did, he realized how ridiculous a V-neck looks with those horrible Tripp pants and he started wearing the skinny jeans. Once you get your guy out of his comfort zone, BACK OFF. Too much, too soon will propel him back into his ugly habits. After a few months, he realized how much he loved the skinny jeans and the V-necks and slim fit tees. Once he was comfortable with that, I added to his wardrobe. A cute vest, some nice button downs, etc.
Now, why did I go to all this trouble? Because he is my vintage bag, my Louboutin’s, my arm candy.
I'm not saying that you can't love your man and all his flaws because you can. But wouldn't you tell your best friend if she was looking a hot mess? Yeah, I thought so. It's the same principle.
Your boyfriend is your accessory, ladies. Do not let him go into public smelling or looking a hot mess. Because no one wants to see your honey at his worst.
Remember, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL, DAMN IT!”
Xoxox
Anda
I hope all of you out there are either happily single or have found a man that makes you happy and treats you like the fabulous big girl you are.
You know what makes me mad? When I see a beautiful, stylish, fabulous girl with a guy who looks like he A) has been playing in the mud, B) is pretty sure Zest is something you use to spice up the chicken, or C) feels that he’s with a big girl so he doesn’t have to try to look good because she’ll stay with no matter what. (Sadly, C is pretty much a reality when dealing with a girl who has no self-esteem.) Think of your boyfriend as a staple in your wardrobe of life- he should compliment your changes and personality and should look good while doing it.
The problem? Some guys are resistant to change and some of you ladies are lazy. I know it takes a lot to mold a guy, trust me I do. But that’s where it gets fun. Think of your man as a vintage bag. Someone else has owned him at one point, they might have even messed him up, and now it’s your turn to wipe the dirt away and buff out all the scuff marks.
I like to think of my boyfriend as a pair of Christian Louboutin’s that another girl left out in the rain. When we first met, I knew he’d be a lot of work. He was tall and lean, had great hair and teeth, and knew that he could melt a girl with his smile. Problem? His clothes. His last girlfriend had been some freak show who thought that boys only looked good in those god-awful Tripp pants and black t-shirts. I like to think that he was young and impressionable (she was older than him) rather than he actually liked those stupid pants. Honest to God, the pants almost ruined everything. Silly, but true. I did give him a chance and it turned out to be one of the best things I ever did.
But those pants had to go.
I didn’t charge in and throw out his whole wardrobe, and you shouldn’t try to do it either. Men hate change, it’s a fact. Do as I did and gradually introduce new things to him. The first thing I bought him was a few pairs of jeans, regular fit and skinny. Then we started going shopping together. At first, he hated going anywhere that wasn’t Hot Topic, but I finally got him to go into a few different stores. It took me a week to convince him to wear a V-neck, but when he finally did, he realized how ridiculous a V-neck looks with those horrible Tripp pants and he started wearing the skinny jeans. Once you get your guy out of his comfort zone, BACK OFF. Too much, too soon will propel him back into his ugly habits. After a few months, he realized how much he loved the skinny jeans and the V-necks and slim fit tees. Once he was comfortable with that, I added to his wardrobe. A cute vest, some nice button downs, etc.
Now, why did I go to all this trouble? Because he is my vintage bag, my Louboutin’s, my arm candy.
I'm not saying that you can't love your man and all his flaws because you can. But wouldn't you tell your best friend if she was looking a hot mess? Yeah, I thought so. It's the same principle.
Your boyfriend is your accessory, ladies. Do not let him go into public smelling or looking a hot mess. Because no one wants to see your honey at his worst.
Remember, “I’m beautiful, I’m beautiful, I’M BEAUTIFUL, DAMN IT!”
Xoxox
Anda
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