4 Black Friday and Cyber Monday Pick-ups

Fashionistas: What did you purchase last holiday weekend? 

I had to work the early morning shift at my retail job on Black Friday, so I wasn't able to shop the doorbuster sales. But I still ordered online from many retailers at amazing sale prices!

Here are some of my personal steals from this retail-crazy weekend:

1. Juicy Couture Sophia Zip Wallet

Retail: $118

My Price: $70.80

I received an e-mail that the entire Juicy Couture site the weekend of Black Friday was 40% off. I immediately had to order a wallet because theirs hold up so well. I own a black one with studs from last holiday season. I ordered the blue color to go with a new bag I also purchased on sale. That's next.

2. Michael Kors Jeweled Denim Snake Selma

Retail: $498
My Price: $348.50

Macy's is having their Friends & Family sale, offering 25% off a great selection of clothing, accessories and shoes. I was able to pre-sale for the event beginning on December 4. I also used a $25 gift card towards my purchase. I cannot wait to pick this little baby up! Between the denim hue and the jewels/studs.. Oh my!

3. Alternative Apparel Rocky-Eco Camo Print Hoody

Retail: $65
My Price: $25

Bloomingdales.com still has this product for sale for full-price.
Fashionista Tip: Bargain shop.
If you really love something, key in the product name on google shopping and compare! Amazon was offering a low price, with free shipping, so I just had to order this for my dad! So trendy and fuzzy-warm!




4. Lucky Brand Fender Spirit of Rock and Roll T-shirt

Retail: $39.50
My Price: $27.65

Lucky Brand offers great pieces that can be boho-chic or rocker/edgy. I loved this almost throwback-looking tee that has the washed-out effect to pair with jeans and motorcycle boots for fall. Subscribe to their email list to get the most up-to-date promotions. They offer 30% off site-wide occasionally, so I snagged this tee when I saw the sale!



Let me know in the comments below what your super-saving deals were!

MAC 'Hautecore Friday' : Black Friday Limited Edition Lipstick

I don't know about you, but as soon as I  hear "black lipstick," I think of a witch on Halloween Eve, prepping her broomstick for a spooky night.

I get the pun of having black lipstick available for purchase on Black Friday, but is this real?!

Photo Courtesy of makeupandbeautyblog.com

MAC's 2013 Black Friday lipstick called "Hautecore Friday" is described by makeupandbeautyblog.com as a deep purple, although it does appear pitch black in the tube. It's sheer, so to get the pure black look, apply more than 3 layers onto the lips.

Each year on Black Friday, MAC cosmetics offers a dark lipstick available for purchase online.

Is it the fad of having an original color that's limited edition, or is it actually popular to own black lipstick?

Well, according to an article from the Huffington Post, the 2012 Black Friday edition of a slate-shade lipstick, called "Grey Friday," was only sold in the MAC Time Square location and online. This exclusivity could have added to why it sold out in a matter of hours.

Not only was the 2012 edition a sell-out because it was limited edition, but other MAC lipsticks from their limited edition collections have sold out just as fast. The 2009 Black Friday shade called "Black Knight" made a comeback after it's Black Friday debut, because of its overwhelming popularity.

According to Yahoo! Shopping, the Rihanna collaboration with MAC produced a dark wine lipstick called "RiRi Woo." It sold out within a couple hours online, and the next shipment was not expected until a couple months later.

I think I'll pass on this lipstick, I much rather have a pink or red shade to celebrate the holidays in anyway.

Would you sit up until midnight on Black Friday to make sure you nab one of these dark gems?

If you are wanting this shade or any past year's Black Friday editions, you can scope out eBay to grab one., or just order the 2013 shade straight from maccosmetics.com if you're lucky enough to press "submit order" in time.

Also, if you're looking for other upcoming cosmetic specials, Temptalia offers an entire list of cosmetic specials available online and in-store promotions for Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

HAPPY (ALMOST) BLACK FRIDAY SHOPPING!

Nail Art To-Go: Mobile Nail Salon Coming to Miami

"You are the art, not just the paintings on your nails."

           - Breanne from Wassaic, New York

Imagine a mobile trailer making its way around America- filled with nail polish and manicure tools, aiming to paint 500 manicures nationwide.

It was all created by one girl with a knack for community service projects, and it may be on its way to an area near you. For complete dates, visit her website, but below is an upcoming date near where I live.

What: Nails Across America at the Miami Pulse Art Fair

When: December 5-8

Where: The Ice Palace Studios- 1400 North Miami Avenue, Miami, FL

Cost: 4-day entry to fair: $25

Breanne, an artist, is the face behind this unique movement, as she calls it "Nails in the Key of Life." In her path to getting a nail technician license, Brianne knew she could fuse her passion for nail art and her appreciation for the community by bringing manicures to women all over the country.

"Nails Across America" is a cross-country road trip that will begin in New York City, and then to the West Coast, Texas, and down south.

The manicures include a hand massage, filing, clipping, nail painting, and if asked, special designs too. There is a menu in which one can choose colors, and designs like a pencil, or even a cupcake nail design.

All designs and colors offered relate to Breanne's artwork- neon orange pays homage to the junk food she paints, like Cheeto's, and the glitter blue manicures are relative to the television program "Friday Night Lights" that she depicts in her artwork.

With every manicure completed, you receive a signed and dated letter of authenticity, showing that you  participated.

The best part of this movement: All manicures will be free if Brianne gets enough funding!

Donate in order to keep Nails Across America on the move. 

The Miami New Times' website interviewed Breanne and her nail art mission, even quoting her saying "I've met so many people through this project! I gave a manicure to a cowboy in Marfa ([named] Barry), a locomotive engineer in Hartford ([named] Audrey), and an EMT in Providence ([named] Tony) to name a few."

Do you plan on attending to get a manicure done by Breanne? 

I'm deeply considering it! Being a part of this movement seems like a great way to get involved in the community, and get a unique experience of getting a manicure in a mobile trailer!

In case you're feeling inspired and want to paint your nails Cheeto Orange...

HAPPY POLISHING!

5 Holiday Outfit Essentials: Sparkles from Clothes to Nails

Can you believe it's already holiday season?

It's more than exciting to begin holiday shopping, but with so many holiday parties around the corner- the gifts can wait. You've got to figure out an outfit to wear to the events first!

SAY NO TO THE TYPICAL CHRISTMAS SWEATER. Nothing else needs to be said about that...

The holidays are a perfect time to break out sequins,  bold patterns, metallics, and things that you wouldn't otherwise wear any time of year (unless you're gaudy like me 24-7). That's why my number one pick for a holiday party outfit is a sequined dress.

1. All-over Sequin Dress:

I have this item in my Forever21 shopping cart currently and am just waiting to push the 'order' button. The sequin detailing on this dress is just blinding because it is so beautifully made. The dress also comes in royal blue, but I prefer the black. It's still blingy, but can transition into many seasons and can definitely be worn more than once for any cocktail party beyond the holiday season.

Or... If you're not so much of a girly-girl and want to still rock sequins...

2. Sequin Track Pants and a Black Blazer:

These pants link edge with girly, and are perfect for the holidays when you're looking for a little extra sparkle. Paired with a structured top, like a blazer, and a tank underneath, this outfit is a take on the classic holiday dress. Track pants are so on-trend right now, and Nordstrom's has a ton on their website, even Forever21.com offers great cheaper alternatives.

I prefer to pair these pants with a black blazer like this one, just to balance out the shine factor of the track pants.





3. The Perfect Party Clutch:

Talk about multiple uses and versatility. I personally own two Minkoffs, one in this style with the lobster claw front closure, and I use it so often because it has so many different silhouettes. This purse can transition between a clutch with the detachable chain, a crossbody, and if you shorten the chain, a shoulder bag.

There are so many different designs and patterns of this leather bag. The price ranges between 198 and up, usually making limited-edition patterns and colors more expensive.

Fashionista Tip: Never pay full-price for a Minkoff. Because they are in-stock at so many outlets including Nordstrom's, Bloomingdales, Saks and Neiman Marcus, always check for a sale. The department stores usually offer savings each season on these popular bags.

Rebecca Minkoff actually just had her sample sale in the New York and Los Angeles locations. How I wish I was there!

4. Festive Nail Design:

What's more holiday than pairing red and gold together? And adding glitter? That's the ultimate.

I used O.P.I. Malaga Wine for the base cream maroon color and American Apparel Meteor Shower. The gold sparkle are shard-like cuts of gold foil that add such an awesome texture and look to an otherwise plain fall/winter manicure. Even using this gold foil top coat over turquoise in the summer months adds a little pop!

This YouTube video gives another example of holiday nail art by using silver glitter and a winter-white shade. Very glitzy!




5. I saved the best for last... Glittered Sandals.

These Michael Kors shoes are just the icing on the cake. I wouldn't pair these with a sequin dress or the above sequin track pants, because these are meant to be a flair with an otherwise plain black cocktail dress. This silver color is very holiday-themed, and can be used again for work outfits if paired correctly (with a suit or button down).

Where to find items mentioned above:
1. Glam Sequin Dress: Forever21, $29.80
2. Sequin Track Pants: Nordstrom, Wayf brand, $68
    Open-front Blazer: Nordstrom, Trouve brand, sale $58.80
3. Rebecca Minkoff Clutch: Nordstrom, Rebecca Minkoff, sale $196
4. Maroon Nail Polish: O.P.I. Malaga Wine, Amazon.com, $8
    Gold Glitter Top Coat: American Apparel, $6
5. MICHAEL Michael Kors Berkley T-Strap Sandals: Zappos.com, $99

If you're a working girl and are running between an office party and an after-party, check out Fashionista.com for her tips on the transition!

Which of these pieces would you wear to a holiday party?

HAPPY HOLIDAY OUTFIT AND ACCESSORIES SHOPPING!

Veteran's Day Sales: Pre-Holiday Ways to Save

Alright Fashionistas,

Monday is Veteran's Day and that means two things: giving extra respect and admiration for the ones in our lives that fight for our country and then on another note- MAJOR SALES at retail stores!

Keep an eye out for these great ways to save-

DEPARTMENT STORES:

• Bloomingdale's - save 25-40% through Sunday, November 17 on select merchandise ranging from women's and men's clothing, shoes, and select home accessories. 

This dress, combining black ponte material (super stretchy) with metallic coated material is fancy enough for all holiday parties, but can be re-styled with black leather riding boots and a black blazer for a daytime look. Color-blocking is a current trend and by adding metallics into the mix, you're definitely getting a deal for $68.

• Macy's - Veteran's Day Sale offers 10% off select watches, electronics; 15% off home accessories men's suits and lingerie; 20% off clearance items. 

Check Macy's website for their weekly and updated list of printable coupons for in-store use.

• Nordstrom - Nordy's "Half-Yearly Sale" means huge savings on fall items that you could easily wear tomorrow. I love buying fall and winter clothes. The sale includes everything from watches, shoes, apparel, and more.

MALL STORES:

• Victoria's Secret PINK: Sunday night at 6 p.m. is Pink's "Ultimate Shopping Event" with a DJ spinning dance beats and great in-store discounts on sparkly, fashionable and comfortable loungewear. 

• Henri Bendel- 30% off select handbags and jewelry as well as their in-store promotions: Spend $250 and get $50 off OR spend $400 and get $100 off your purchase instantly. 

• Sephora- 20% off for V.I.B. members on purchases through the 11th. Free sign up for their rewards program. Collect points and get invites to exclusive events.

• Gap- 35% off for their "Friends Event" offering off on the entire purchase through the 11th. Can be used online or in-stone. 

• Forever21- Fall Clothing and Shoe sale- save up to 50%. Some pieces are so cheap that you'll feel like you're stealing. The best way to shop this sale is to shop on their website- more stock available than in-store. Just remember, anything on sale from Forever21 is final sale. 

This open-shouldered sweatshirt is very on-trend right now, and to nab it for only $16 is a steal. Combining ombre, chain detailing and comfort is almost unheard of. But having that all in one sweatshirt- heaven. I might be ordering this! 

• Lucky Brand- up to 50% off sale styles, 30% off jewelry just for the weekend also. Join their e-mail list and get frequent e-mails about offers usually valid on Tuesdays for up to 30% off. 

*This list is just a couple stores offerings savings for the holiday. There are many more having specials so please do not believe these are the only options to save.

For even more savings, check these websites for their compilation of stores offering steals and deals for this holiday:

1. For those who are active military members, enjoy free or discounted meals at McCormick & Schmick's Seafood and Steak, and others by visiting The Examiner's website.

2. For a complete list of shopping savings, visit Veteransday.co and their extensive store list. Click on the store you want to discover savings on, and see when sale ends. This site is very efficient.


Fashionistas: Where are you headed for your Veteran's Day Shopping? Tell me in the comment section below!

HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY (AND SHOPPING)!

5 Trendy Winter Wardrobe Essentials

This may be a foolish post considering I live in South Florida, but I am ready for the cooler months to tickle my cheek and whip through my hair. Recently the wind has picked up and it's finally under 80 degrees once the sun sets.

For those fashionistas who live up north, or travel often to cooler climates, I gathered some of my favorite and well-priced cold weather necessities. These pieces can easily be transitioned from freezing to spring-like temperatures without a sweat.

WINTER JACKET:

I love to wear a pop of color, especially when it's a jacket or blazer. With this wool jacket from the Gap, I see so much versatility. You can wear this as a jacket in the cool temperatures with an infinity scarf, or when it gets a bit warmer, style it with boyfriend-fit ripped capris for an effortless look.

What's nice is that the jacket is on-trend with the motorcycle-like cut and zipper, and the color brings an unexpected pow to an otherwise dull winter season.

SWEATER WEATHER:

Who doesn't love sweater weather? I look forward to it all year long, but because it's a huge excuse to put my worn out shorts away.

This Forever21 sweater combines some of the latest trends spotted on the runway- cutouts and camouflage print. Although the sweater is not as functional because it has cutouts, I don't mind sacrificing warmth for fashion. Call me crazy!

LEATHER PANTS:

Oh yes, I said leather pants. If you're on a budget, I would purchase faux-leather. In my opinion, it's more comfortable anyway. Manufacturers usually mix in a bit of Polyester for added stretch in faux-leather pieces.

To ease your concerns, there is a way to style these Forever21 leather pants to transition from day to night. Wear a black or neon blazer with a v-neck underneath for a trendy but edgy look. Even a tunic top over the tight-fitting leather pants will add a trendy touch.

JEWELED NECKLACE PULLOVER:

If you want an alternative to the always-comfy warm pullover sweater, it's time to get a jeweled-neck pullover. This combines the best of both worlds- a necklace and a sweater so it's a put on and go outfit.

This Apt. 9 Brand Pullover from Kohl's has an attractive price tag, and there are always coupons floating around in newspapers or online to save even more on this item. Style it with dark denim jeans, or even black jeans, for the winter months. Effortlessly chic!


BOOTS:

My feet are always the first part of my body to get the chills. To be worn with warm socks, these Target buckle boots are fashionable and definitely make a statement.

Wear with a dress and tights on cool days, or style with printed jeans tucked in. The key to styling these boots is to not think too much about what to wear with them. Have confidence in yourself and you will create beautiful pairings!


If you're the definition of a Fashionista, then you might already know the top 3 winter trends. If not, check it out!

For advice on how to search for the best bargain for your winter wardrobe, see the Star Tribune's article about shopping smart.

HAPPY WINTER WARDROBE SHOPPING!

Fall and Winter Makeup Trends: The Do's and Don'ts

Maroon, nude, deep eggplant and chocolate brown are just a couple of the expected fall/winter shades that girls should transition into as we ditch the summer neon trends and the white denim jeans. It's officially fall in my book since November kicked off.

As far as makeup trends, there always is a chance to rock a shade of color you wouldn't normally wear in your clothes. Makeup can be natural and glisten on your skin, or can be a playful tool in trying new looks. I prefer having fun with my makeup!

DO for Fall/Winter Makeup: Red Lips.

My favorite go-to red lipstick is Trish McEvoy's "Passion Fruit." It's a creamy and moisturizing formula with intense red pigment. Red Lipstick instantly makes anyone's teeth brighter and whiter.

If you want to go for a matte red look, which are both on-trend, try NARS lip products.

Their Pure Matte Lipstick in "Vesuvio" has great wearability, and stays on for hours. Project Swatch did a review on "Vesuvio", saying it might be easier to apply with a lip brush rather than directly onto the lip from the tube, but I would sacrifice anything for the true color it produces.


DO for Fall/Winter Makeup: Smoky Eyes.

I think smoky eyes can be worn all year round, but the cooler months make room for darker eye shadows. Everyone has their own trends, if you're a blonde, brunette, or red-head, but I prefer using grays and metallics for my smoky eye.

My personal favorite smoky eyeshadow palette is from M.A.C Cosmetics. This four-count eyeshadow palette,  "Gentle Fume," has a silver-white color, gray, black and a blue-ish gray shade also.

I always work this palette onto my eye in three sections. In the inner-corner of my eye I apply the white shade for a bit of a lightener for the eye to look more awake and wider. I add the silver-gray color onto the middle of my eyelid, and then finally blend the blue-ish shade inward once I apply it to my eye's outer-corner.

Temptalia did a review for this palette, and the rest of the collection it was a part of back in 2007. Since then, M.A.C has re-promoted this palette and that is why I own it. It was my favorite then, and is now too. Trust me, I wouldn't keep my original palette for six plus years!

Sephora created a video for tips on getting the perfect smoky eye, and even though this video is also from 2007, I still find the trend very current. Just read through the most recent editions of Vogue!



DON'T for Fall/Winter Makeup: Black Nail Polish.

I think this trend is completely over-done. It's a traditional goth-girl look, and it's also fun for Halloween costumes; but that time has passed. Black nail polish does look amazing if it is chip-free, shiny from a top coat, and is on perfectly-manicured and filed nails.

Most girls are on the run, and might go to work and school, and between the two, we get chips on our nails. Once that black polish begins to chip, it is totally evident.

Instead of doing black nail polish, try a nail color that will be more subdued if and when it chips.

According to Allure's post about Fall Nail Trends, Essie's "For the Twill of It" or Cover Girl's "Vio-last" are both bold and beautiful shades of teal/purple metallic and royal purple.

To see a review of the mentioned Essie shade, visit a previous blog post featuring that color.

DON'T for Fall/Winter Makeup: Bronzer.

I know some of you are reading right now and your eyebrows are raised.
No bronzer during the Winter months? Is this girl crazy?

No, I am not crazy, I just prefer blush over bronzer during the cold months.

There's nothing better than having tan skin, but that's more summer-themed than it is practical for the cooler times. Adding just a hint of rosiness on your cheeks will add a pop of color while you shiver outside.

Tarte brand blush has great application with one swipe of a blush brush in the tin. I have tried so many blushes that do not transfer color onto my cheeks. This one did not fail me. A light pink, or if you are more tan, a strawberry shade can be applied for just a little kiss of warmth.

For the Fashionistas who want more:
For more Fall and Winter Makeup Trends, see The Linc. They mention that the "Swinging Sixties" look with voluminous lashes is in trend. It would look lovely with red lips!


I hope these Do's and Don'ts were helpful as you transition your makeup from the beach to in front of the fireplace. Bundle up!

HAPPY MAKEUP SHOPPING AND MAKEUP APPLYING!