Chanel Paradoxal

While in Nordstrom this weekend, I perused the Chanel makeup counter. It's a pretty sure bet that their colors will become the "it" color of the season. I ended up buying the gorgeous purple/gray/taupe color (depending on the lighting) "Paradoxal." I can't wait to wear it.
Lucky for me, the lady also informed me that they'd restocked "Nouvelle Vague," the jade shade that has been sold out, so I bought that one those too. I decided to apply it first since it's still summer afterall. It's a dead ringer for Tiffany blue.

These polishes are not cheap at $23, but the color stays on my nails well, and that's saying something since my nails tend to repel polish.

I also picked up a bottle of Chanel's newest cologne, Bleu de Chanel, for my fiance. He usually wears Tom Ford, but I think he'll love this because it smells divine. Chanel describes it as "a provocative blend of citrus and woods...fresh, clean, profoundly sensual—a signature statement of determination and desire." What's not to like about that? It's $59 for a 1.7 oz. bottle.

Naked eyeshadow palette

[ulta.com]

I've been in a serious eyeshadow rut. I was looking for a palette with everyday colors plus a few more sultry night-time options. I chose Urban Decay's 'Naked' palette from Ulta ($44), and I must say that it's my new fave.

All twelve colors are so pretty. The majority of the shades have a hint of shimmer. This shadow lasts all day, too. It comes with a travel-size eyeshadow primer, which I think really helps. I'm partial to gel eyeliner, but the dual black/brown "24/7 Glide" pencil goes on easily and stays put all day. Another plus is that the palette isn't huge, so it fits nicely in a makeup bag for traveling. It's definitely going to be a honeymoon-must, and at this rate, I might need to buy another one!

Nail envy

[sephora.com]

My nails don't hold polish very well. I paint them or get a manicure, and 24 hours later there's a chip. Nevertheless, I don't like my nails bare, so it's the burden I must bear. There are two nail trends that I'm anxious to try out.

Sephora by OPI has created 'Chic Prints for Nails' ($15). Celebs have been a fan of Minx nails for a while (prices ranging from $30-$55). The Chic Prints are similar but more affordable. I like the tiger and fishnet print. Each package comes with 16 patches for one-time application to nails or toes. They seem kind of tedious to apply, but they'd definitely be fun to try for a special occasion.[nylonmag.com]

Another trend that I'm super-excited about is Revlon's Suede nail collection. The best part about these pastel polishes is that they're $3.99, and I'm sure there are coupons to be found, too. I'm obsessed with the beige! These are coming soon to stores.

Red, white & blue picks

[sephora.com]

I can't believe that July 4 is this weekend. Where is the summer going? Anyway, here are some of my patriotic and budget-friendly red, white and blue picks for the holiday weekend.

I'm loving Sephora by O.P.I.'s Midnight Mambo nail polish ($9) from their Havana Nights collection. It's a pretty light blue color with chunky glitter - just like fireworks for the nails!
[anthropologie.com]

The 'Guatemala City Sandals' from Anthropologie are quite festive, and they look comfy. They're on sale for $29.95, too.
[anthropologie.com]

Also from Anthro is the nautical 'Know the Ropes Dress' by Moulinette Soeurs. I bought this dress a few weeks ago, and I love it. It's hard to tell in the photo, but it has a slight cowl neck. I think I'm going to wear it to a boat party with a red belt. It's on sale for $69.95 from $148.
[jcrew.com]

J.Crew's white strapless 'Ginny Dress' is a classic summer staple. I love the eyelet design. It looks great with a belt as shown. It's on sale for $79.99 from $148. You could probably find it for cheaper too since my store is offering 20% off all sale items. [llbean.com]

I'm going to the beach this weekend, and my weekend bag of choice is always the extra-large 'Open-Top Boat and Tote Bag' from L.L. Bean. These canvas bags are so durable, and they hold a ton. I like the extra-long handles. Prices range from $17.95-$30.95, and they're monongrammable for an extra $6. They're available in 12 different colors. [nordstrom.com]

Ella Moss's 'Monaco Dress' is 60% off at Nordstrom for $55.90. This bright dress would be fun for a night out.

Nordstrom beauty exclusives

I love just about any sale, but I'm so excited because my favorite sale of the year - Nordstrom's Anniversary sale - is starting soon. Typical sales consist of old items that have been out for a while, but not this one. These products are new for the fall season.

Right now, beauty exclusives can be pre-ordered to arrive by July 12. Here are the items on my list... [all photos Nordstrom.com]

-Bobbi Brown's 'Chocolate and Navy Set' ($75), a $135 value-Smashbox 'Evening Chic Set' ($59), a $155 value

-Chanel 'Coco Mademoiselle Fresh Moisture Mist' ($45), Nordstrom exclusive-MAC 'Look in a Box: Miss Violet' ($59.50), an $87 value
-Essie 'Fall Mini 4-pack' ($17), Nordstrom exclusive
-Lippman Collection 'All That Jazz Trio' ($40), Nordstrom exclusive $55 value

Check out all of the fabulous deals here. The Anniversary Sale starts July 16 and ends August 1. Nordstrom cardholders get to shop early.

To La Mer or not to La Mer?

[saksfifthavenue.com]

I've been reading about Creme de La Mer for years. As a celeb favorite, I've always wanted to try it, but it's expensive. About a month ago, I asked for a sample at Saks. Before this kind of splurge, I need to know that I like it. The lady at the counter gave me a small sample, which I carefully patted onto my face every night for a few weeks until it ran out.

The formula is made with a nutrient-rich "Miracle Broth" that was developed by a scientist who was burned badly in a chemical explosion. Just a tiny bit of creme is needed because it's rich. It comes with a mini spatula-like thing that helps scoop it out.

I honestly think that it did make my skin feel smoother. Since I'm in my twenties, I wasn't worried about smoothing wrinkles per se. It was more about prevention because I definitely got a lot of sun when I was younger.

So, I figured since my wedding is coming up, why not splurge? My first jar of Creme de La Mer has officially arrived. Here's to hoping for skin miracles!

Memorial Weekend beach picks

This weekend is the unofficial start of summer. I always go to the Outer Banks with my family. Here are some of my must-packs for the long weekend...[victoriassecret.com]

-Easy cover-ups: Unfussy swimsuit cover-ups are always nice at the beach. I like this 'Tie-dye Beach Dress' from Victoria's Secret. It comes in purple, pink and green for $39.99. [nordstrom.com]

-Havaianas: These are the only flip-flops I will wear. They're comfy, colorful and classic (how's that for alliteration!). Nordstrom has some solid colors on sale right now for $11.90. The 'Fun' pair pictured is $22. I also often find them at Ross or Marshall's.[anthropologie.com]

-Tote: An indestructible tote is a must. Anthropologie has two totes on sale for $9.99, 'Hardy Camellias Tote' and 'Go Green Tote.'

[forever21.com]

-Straw hat: Covering my face at the beach is crucial. This 'Side Bow Fedora' from Forever 21 is a steal at under $9 and it's very chic.

[jcrew.com]

-Shorts: I bought these slightly loud bright kiwi '3" Chino Shorts' ($40) from J.Crew when they were having their shorts sale. This is their shortest length.

[saksfifthavenue.com]

-Sunnies: Sunglasses are a beach must. Actually, they're an everyday must. Seriously, I am blind in the daytime without them. I'm obsessed with these Dolce & Gabbana 'Goldtone Frame Sunglasses' from Saks. I love the shape and the gold-tone brow. Plus, I don't think they're too unreasonably priced at $260.
[jcrew.com]

-Swimsuit: No, I don't own this swimsuit yet, but I will be buying it before my honeymoon. The 'Tulle Underwire Top and Retro Hipster' (top $60, bottoms $56) from J.Crew are inspired by French swimwear. Who knew you could have tulle on swimwear? It's available in buff pink, dusty baltic and black.
My beach read of choice is The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson. Now, if someone could just invent sand-proof nail polish I'd be all set!

What to get for Mother's Day?

Mother's Day is May 9. I've already gotten my mom's gift (and I can't post it, or she'd read about it!), but I've found some other great and affordable gifts for mom that go beyond the typical flowers.
[bananarepublic.com]

I know that my mom loves cardigans (and I do too for that matter). They are so wearable, and look great day or night. I really like the 'Sweetheart Exposed Seam Cardi' from Banana Republic because it comes in so many colors. It's $69.50, and sun bleached yellow and teal glaze are on sale for $49.99. [anthropologie.com]

The 'Beribboned Buds Cardi' from Anthropologie is another fabulous pick thanks to the floral design on the shoulder. It's on sale for $49.95 from $88. Note: If they ever sell out of something online, you can always call Anthro at 1·800·309·2500, and they will ship the item for free (!) to you if they can find it in a store.
[crateandbarrel.com]

My mom also likes to get new things for her house. I've heard several moms say that they need another wedding shower since theirs were so long ago. This bright, springy pillow would be the perfect addition to an otherwise boring sofa or chair. The 18" 'Emily Pillow' is $39.95 from Crate & Barrel. They actually sell the pillow insert with the pillow cover; some stores - which shall remain nameless - aren't so generous.


Another great pick from C&B are these yellow 'Lula Vases.' Bonus points if you add a flower! They're $9.95 to $19.95.[fishseddy.com]

Fishs Eddy is the perfect store for gifts for mom. If your mom likes wine, or even if she doesn't (they make great juice glasses), these 'Floral Italian Wine Glasses' are so lovely. A set of six different glasses come in a gift box for $33.95. The glasses are $5.50 individually.
[ulta.com]

Ulta is one of my fave stores for beauty products because of their plentiful deals and coupons. You can receive a free tote worth $40 with any $30 fragrance purchase. My mom's favorite scent is Miss Dior Cherie by Dior.
[sephora.com]


Sephora's 'Color Play 5-in-1' is the deal of the century. It's $150 worth of makeup for $29.50. It comes complete with 10 eyeshadows, two lipcolors and blush. My mom would absolutely love this. Plus, the five different looks have adorbable names: Dinner in Paris-Grays and blacks, Coffee in New York-Browns, Shopping in Milan-Purples and pinks, green, Tango in Buenos Aires-Blues and greens, and Clubbing in Tokyo-Baby blues, pinks, and yellows.

Alice + Olivia for MAC

[nitrolicious.com]

Yes! Yesterday WWD reported that Stacey Bendet Eisner of Alice + Olivia has teamed up with MAC Cosmetics for a limited edition collection. The line is set to hit stores on June 8 with prices ranging from $12-$19.50. I love the packaging and bright colors like the chartreuse (one of my new favorite colors). That turquoise polish is fabulous, too.
[saksfifthavenue.com]

Speaking of Alice + Olivia, I'm obsessed with this 'Beaded Dress' ($440) from Saks. This dress looks like it could be straight out of the roaring twenties. My favorite part is the deep V back. Oh, please go on sale! At least the makeup will be budget-friendly.

Beyoncé's fragrance Heat

I'm slightly ashamed to admit that I love Beyoncé's new perfume, Heat. After seeing the annoying "you give me fevahh" commercials over and over, I was curious to see how this stuff actually smelled. With celebs backing their own fragrances left and right, this is one to buy and enjoy.

The fragrance arrived in stores last month and has sold quite well. Heat is very feminine, and it's going to be a great edition to my spring scent repertoire. According to fragrantica.com, the notes include red vanilla-orchid, magnolia, neroli, peach, honeysuckle, almond and musky cream with sequoia wood, tonka and amber.

The price isn't too bad either - $49 for 1.7 fl. oz and $59 for 3.4 fl. oz. Duh, go with the bigger bottle for $10 more! It's available at Macy's. The red and orange glass bottle is quite pretty, too.

Chanel's Rouge Coco lipstick: Oui s'il vous plaît

[stylefrizz.com]
[chanel.com]

This weekend was my engagement party. I had a new dress from Anthropologie, and I needed a little somethin' somethin' in the makeup department to go with it. I went into Saks Fifth Avenue because I've been wanting to get Chanel's Rouge Coco hydrating lipstick for a while but just hadn't taken the time to find my shade yet. Johnny Depp's significant other Vanessa Paradis is the spokesmodel.
[stylelist.com]
[chanel.com]

The lady at the Chanel counter informed me that Sandra Bullock wore Rouge Coco to the Oscars. Lucky for me, I thought Sandra's makeup and hair were perfection. I tried on the lipstick in her shade Paris (#22) and was instantly smitten. It's a red with pink undertones. I also tried the lipliner in Carmin (#14), a slightly lighter shade that could be worn with other shades of lipsticks. When you're dealing with a bright and heavily pigmented color, lipliner always helps me put it on without smearing it all over my face.

Anyway, I bought the lipstick ($30) and lipliner ($28). My lips literally lasted the entire night of the party. They didn't feel parched either, which is what normally seems to happen with long-lasting lip colors. Check all of the colors out on Chanel's site. I also attempted her sleek, deeply side-parted, slightly curled on the ends 'do. It wasn't the exact same since I have bangs, but it was fun attempting it nonetheless.

M.A.C.'s Spring Colour Forecast

I visited my neighborhood M.A.C. store yesterday in search of some deep purple lipstick. Luckily, their new "largest campaign ever" called Spring Colour Forecast is out featuring a gorge purple lipglass.
[maccosmetics.com]

The tinted lipglass called Purple Rage, $14 (in the Colour Forecast 3 collection) can be applied in layers for a lighter to darker effect. Also, add it over lipstick for more drama. M.A.C. describes Forecast 3 as, "wicked, noble, naughty, it's PLUM."

I also bought a lipstick called Rose Maiden ($14) from the Forecast 2 collection, which is mostly tawny corals. It's a very pretty frosty berry.

Don't forget about M.A.C.'s recycle program, "Back to M.A.C." Bring in six empty containers and get a free lipglass, lipstick or eyeshadow of your choice. You can also mail the containers back if you don't have a local store. Genius!

Thinking spring

[jcrew.com]

I always like seeing Jenna's picks for J.Crew. This month's "Jenna's Eye Candy" has a few springy things that I love. [jcrew.com]

Generally speaking, I'm a high-heels girl. I am really digging Oxfords though, and these 'Camden Leather Brouges' are super-cute. They aren't cheap at $250, but I could see wearing them now and when it gets warmer with floral dresses as an unexpected combo. My favorite color is the ginger (also available in nutmeg and black).

[jcrew.com]

The 'Flutter Flower Clutch' is lovely ($128). Both the sheer lilac and brilliant orange are beautiful. The silk and chiffon raw-cut flowers make this a fun and unique evening bag.

Lyons also listed some jewelry, a Timex watch, a satchel, some heels and studded belts in her picks. A former J.Crew designer's, Chris Benz, limited edition lipstick for Lancôme called 'Chris & Tell' that is due out in February.
[jcrew.com]

On a random note, while perusing the site, I came across some Globe Trotter luggage. Apparently British royals have carried precious cargo in this luggage. It's gorgeous, sort of Louis Vuitton-esque stuff, and it's expensive. I love the sour lemon color. I've tried having a light color suitcase though, and it didn't work out. My light pink suitcase turned unsightly black from being tossed around baggage claim.