Shoe Porn

Warning: May cause an inexplicable urge to buy ridiculously awesome and expensive shoes.

I don't know if you noticed, but I'm a huge fan of Christian Louboutin and Dior heels.
xx Chloe

June is National Rose Month

I don't know if you knew this, but the rose is the national floral emblem of the United States. For some reason, that romantic flower gets its own month too. Roses are widely held to be symbols of passion and love, but the meaning depends on the hue of the flower in question. In one Arabic legend of the rose, it was said that roses were originally white. A nightengale met one of the white roses and fell in love, and he was inspired to sing (whereas before his type of bird only croaked and chirped). Eventually his love was such that he pressed his little feathery body into the flower, but the thorns pierced his heart and colored the rose forever red. I think that story is quite poignant. On a different note, I've found some fun products that will help you enjoy roses to their fullest!

Beauty Products
1. Rosebud Perfume Co. Rosebud Salve, $6 at Sephora
2. Aromatherapy Classics Stress Relief Body Wash in Sandalwood Rose, $13 at Bath & Body Works
3. Moroccan Rose Body Mist, $13 at The Body Shop
4. Milani Lip Color in Rose Hip, $4 at Drugstore.com
5. L'Oreal Infallible Plumping Lipgloss in Plumped Rose, $10 at Walgreens

Clothes
1. Floral Pearl Trim Cardigan in Cream/Rose, $28 at Forever21
2. Rose Print Dress, $27 at Wet Seal
3. Falling Roses Dress in Black, $39 at Forever21
4. Sequin Roses Embellished Graphic Tee in True White, $20 at Express

Shoes and Accessories
1. Floral T-strap Sandals in Pink Rose, $30 at GAP
2. Sterling Silver Rose Ring, $40 at Target
3. Pink Satin Double Rose Clutch, $45 at White House|Black Market
4. Fuschia Seude Open Toe Rose T-strap Dress Sandal Heel, $31 at Ami Clubwear

xx Chloe

Wearable Watercolors

Is it just me, or did Olivia Palermo become incredibly stunning once she gave up the bottle blonde? If you need more proof that brunette is beautiful, check out this post. Her chocolate tresses were curled with what looks like a large barrel curling iron, and her middle part was left in tact. Her bags were pinned back, which is an ultra-pretty way to let your face be the focal point. Her makeup was very subdued and Audrey Hepburn-esque: neutral contoured shadows, black liquid liner slightly extended past the eye, shiny light pink lips, and some blue-toned pink blush. The slightly darker than candy red nails are a sophisticated finishing touch.

Let's talk about this outfit she wore at the Institute for Civic Leadership benefit in the Big Apple. I love her use of color, pattern, and proportion. Her floaty top is balanced by crisp, well-tailored shorts. Her cardigan has a very small print, yet the floral print on her blouse is much larger. In order to keep a lean silhouette, she belted her blouse right beneath her breasts with a complimentary braided belt. The shoes are an unexpected twist, but the coral peep-toe T-strap heels synch with the rest of her ensemble. I would have never thought of that! The purple and yellow in her blouse are warm colors, so they gel with the coral hue. Style lesson: Stay in the same color temperature to avoid clashing!

To replicate her look, you'll need:
♥  A neutral 3/4 sleeve sequined cardigan
♥  A watercolor white tank
♥  White short-shorts
♥  A neutral braided belt (similar color as cardigan)
♥  Coral/peach peep-toe T-strap heels
♥  A matching deep red mani/pedi

Products to Try:
1. Michael Antonio Harpo Wedge Sandal in Orange, $30 at DSW
2. Sequin Falls Cardigan in Fawn, $80 at J.Crew
3. Butterfly Watercolor Floral Tank, $10 at Crazy 8
4. AE Skinny Braided Belt in Chalk, $20 at American Eagle Outfitters
5. AE White Denim Shorties, $35 at American Eagle Outfitters
6. L'Oreal Paris Pro Manicure Nail Polish in Dozen Red Roses, $5 at Drugstore.com

xx Chloe

Canary Can Be Sweet

Whitney Port wore this unexpectedly sunny Yigal Azrouel mini to the MTV Movie Awards. I have to say, yellow has never been my favorite color. I own one pale yellow tee and some neon yellow running shorts, but that's it. Of course, Port has always had a very interesting style, especially since she's moved to NYC. The nude in combination with the bright canary yellow makes it palatable, not like she chose to dress up like a citrus fruit. I absolutely adore the accessories she choose. From her intricate gold peep-toe cage sandals, her oversize metallic clutch, and some strategic bangles...she looks fashion-forward. The Brigitte Bardot hair, subdued makeup, dark pedicure, and trendy greige manicure pull everything together nicely. Let's be honest, if I had her legs I'd be showing them off at every opportunity that presented itself!

To replicate her look, you'll need:
♥ A strapless yellow minidress
♥ An oversize gold clutch
♥ Gold cage sandals
♥ Gold bangles
♥ Confidence!

Products to Try:
1. Smocked Tube Dress in Yellow, $9 at Wet Seal
2. Isadora Strapless Dress in Mustard, $16 at Forever 21
3. Surran Heeled Sandals in Gold, $60 at Aldo
4. Gold Studded Peep Toe Caged Heel Bootie, $16 at Ami Clubwear
5. Metal Bangles in Gold Plated, $10 at Old Navy
6. Gold Chain Mail Box, $15 at Forever 21

xx Chloe

Ecofriendly Finds: A Green Summer

Beauty Products to Try:
1. Alba TerraGloss in Garnet, $6 at AlbaBotanica.com
This gloss is free of artificial colors, mineral oil, petrolatum, parabens, or phthalates. The formula has Vitamin E, shea butter, and beeswax for perfectly glossy lips. It's available in five other deletable colors, so you're bound to find one in your signature shade.
2. Organix Invigorating Cherry Blossom Shampoo, $7 at CVS
The yummy-smelling formula is free of sulfates and parabens and is safe for all hair types, including color-treated hair. The bottles are ecofriendly and manufactured from post-consumer resin. The compostable label film is made of corn, and only environmentally friendly ink is used. It promises to add volume at the root while nourishing your hair with rice milk and bamboo extract.
3. Yes to Carrots Hydrating Body Lotion with SPF 30, $14 at Walgreens
This lotion is 97.4% natural and free of petroleum and parabens (cruelty-free as well). This formula will keep you safe in the sun since it provides sun protection while hydrating with organic carrots, aloe, and Dead Sea minerals.
4. NVEY ECO Organic Eye Shadow in 166, $24 at Sephora
This is an organic eyeshadow that's talc-free and rich in color due to the combination of corn silk and jojoba oil. Chamomile and vitamins A, C, and E make the formula excellent for those with dry and/or sensitive skin. There are no parabans, sulfates, synthetic dyes or fragrances, petro-chemicals, or phtalates. There are lots of great shimmery colors to choose from: grey, brown, olive, taupe, pinky peach, copper, and marigold. Matte versions are available in pale turquoise and lavender.
5. Kiss My Face Obsessively Organic Conditioner in Green Tea & Lime,$9 at Kmart
This cruelty-free conditioner is perfect to use everyday due to the organic botanicals and essential oils which improve manageability and diminish tangles and split ends. Plus it's like aromatherapy in your shower!
6. Physicians Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Eyeliner in Black Night Organics, $7 at Discount Beauty Center
This eyeliner is free of synthetics, parabens and harsh chemicals while being cruelty-free. It's also safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. The pencil is made with natural wood, and the formula itself is 37% organic.

Clothes and Accessories to Try:
1. Organic Baby Rib Cross-Back Summer Dress in Ultraviolet, $39 at American Apparel
A fun and flattering sundress made with 100% organic baby rib cotton. The back is super flirty!
2. Simple Shoes Satire Leopard Sneaker in Hot Pink Leopard, $50 at Simple Shoes
These comfy and fierce sneaks are made with certified organic cotton, recycled car tires, and recylced plastic bottles. You may have to retire your Chucks in favor of these ecofriendly kicks.
3. Betmar Organic Cotton Eyelet Beret in Twilight Blue, $20 at Delmonico Hatter
You'll feel good (and cute!) about wearing this boho chic find since it's made with 100% organic cotton.
4. Sexy Short Skirt/Top Duo in Mushroom, $49 at Green Earth Bamboo
This multitasking miracle is made from super soft bamboo viscose. The waist folds over for extra versatility.
5. Recycled Thai Fabric Hand Bag, $38 at EarthLover
This colorful handbag is one-of-a-kind! Since it's made with recycled Thai fabric, each bag is slightly unique. The bag is handmade and roomy enough for all of your stuff.
6. Roll Edge Pure Pima Organic Scarf in Sunkist Coral, $10 at Fair Indigo
This cheap and 100% organic cotton scarf is machine-washable. I think you'll get lots of mileage out of it, especially in the freshly pretty pinkish color.

xx Chloe

Street Style: Earn Your Stripes

This stylish blogger from New York, New York was snapped up by Elle's Street Chic Daily, and for good reason. Her devil-may-care casual outfit has loads of horizontal stripes. Why does it work? She stuck with a neutral color palette: gray, white, navy, nude, and brown. Her shirt is James Perse, her skort is Open Ceremony, her shoes are Aldo, her bag is Bogetta Veneta, her sunglasses are Ray Bans, and her jewelry is vintage. I also like how her pink nails pop against the neutral backdrop of her ensemble!

As much as I like designer clothing, I try to look for cheap steals. I am a college student, after all!

To replicate this look, you'll need:
♥ A gray horizontal multi-stripe tee
♥ A gray miniskirt or skort with horizontal stripes
♥ Nude heels (preferably with clear accents)
♥ A brown hobo bag
♥ Bright pink nail polish
♥ A gold chain necklace
♥ Black aviator sunglasses

Products to Try:
1. Perfect Tee in Black Combo, $6 at Old Navy
2. Sandy Stripe Skirt in Black/Gray, $20 at Alloy
3. Love Me Seude Sandals in Taupe, $89 at Chinese Laundry
4. Coffee Faux Leather Gathered Knot Decor Handbag, $43 at Ami Clubwear
5. Revlon Nail Enamel in Oh My Magenta, $4 at Walmart
6. AE Gilt Sunglasses, $16 at American Eagle Outfitters
7. Mixit Long Matte Gold Chain Necklace, $16 at JCPenney



Now you can try your own version of this girlie's effortlessly chic preppy style.

xx Chloe

Pantone Color of the Year

Drum roll please...2010's hottest color is TURQUOISE. You probably already knew that, though. I'm bringing it up because it's the most fitting hue for summer. It makes me think of lemonade, late night swims in the neighborhood pool, and tropical escapes.

There are all sorts of ways to incorporate this color into your life. Turquoise is supposedly a symbol of youth and communication. Additionally, it creates a soothing effect. Why not find a gorgeous new dress or pair of heels in this color? Or maybe revamp the walls of your bathroom? Keep reading for some inspiration and product ideas.

Doesn't Chanel Iman look stunning with dramatic ocean-inspired makeup at the Gucci spring show? Aqua and turquoise eye shadows and dramatic lashes really make her brown eyes pop. All brown-eyed beauties should consider investing in a shadow or liner of this color. It's a bit unexpected yet incredibly summery. It looks equally great paired with a nude lip for the day or a vixen wine lip for night. This color has been cropping up on nails for the past year as well, so try the bold hue for your next manicure or pedicure! I personally own #3 and #5, and I love them both.

Cosmetics to Try:

1. tarte Ballet Dancers Eyeliner in Turquoise, $18 at QVC

2. Essie Nail Polish in Turquoise & Caicos, $8 at Essie Boutique 

3. Revlon Matte Eyeshadow in Venetian Blue, $5 at Drugstore.com

4. L'Oreal HIP Color Truth Cream Eyeliner in Teal, $10 at Target

5. New York Color Minute Quick Dry Nail Polish in East Village, $2 at Sears

6. NYX Trio Eyeshadow in Aquamarine, $8 at Ulta

Clothes to Shop:

1. One-Shoulder Shirred Dress in Deep Teal, $40 at Newport News

2. Nautical Tank in Multi Stripe, $23 at Alloy 

3. Pleated Linen Skirt in Teal, $18 at Forever 21

4. Neon Twist Bandeau Top and Double-String Bottom in Carabi Bubbles, $22 (top) and $14.50 (bottom) at Victoria's Secret

Accessories to Shop:

1. Two-Tone Canvas Beach Bag in Turquoise, $17 at Old Navy

2. Michael Antonio Tulane Sandal in Turquoise, $40 at DSW

3. Woodstock Beaded Necklace in Turquoise, $18 at Free People

4. Xhilaration Tiger Print Scarf in Aqua, $8 at Target

5. Turquoise Striped Floppy Headband, $10 at Hot Topic

6. Sterling Silver Turquoise "Love" Ring, $17 at Overstock

 

 xx Chloe

Va Va Voom in Burgundy

Taylor Swift stepped outside of her usual cutsy-boho country look for a plain old sexy Galliano frock at the CMT Awards. She complimented it by ditching her normally curly locks for side-parted sleek and straight strands. Lorraine Schwartz hoop earings and Christian Louboutin for 3.1 Phillip Lim sandals perfectly set off her daring dress. She kept her makeup simple: heavy on the black liner and mascara and nude lip gloss with a natural face.

Taylor swears by Chanel Inimitable Mascara in Black and MAC Fluidline Eyeliner in Blacktrack. I suspect she's wearing some serious false lashes as well to achieve the sultry and subtly smoky eye look.

To replicate this look, you'll need:
♥ A flirty burgundy dress that hits above the knee
♥ Strappy high-heeled burgundy sandals
♥ Major sparkly black hoop earrings

Products to Try:
1. Victoria's Secret Sleeveless Squareneck Jersey Dress in Cranberry, $59 at Victoria's Secret
2. Alexia Admor Burgundy Sleeveless Dress, $159 at EDressMe
3. Burgundy Rhinestone Ruched Gathered Prom Dress, $79 at AMI Clubwear
4. Black Sterling Silver Crystal Hoop Earrings, $30 at Target
5. Ann Marino Lass Criss-Cross Sandal in Red, $50 at DSW
6. Carlos Santana Regent Bootie in Red, $60 at DSW



This look is perfect for a night on the town. Taylor got sexy spot-on, and I have to say I'm loving it!

xx Chloe