My Color Theory

My friends once told me that they could identify my mood based on the colors I wore. At the time, I was wearing all black — Yikes. Today, instead of magnifying my state of mind with a corresponding color scheme, I use my ensemble as a sort of mood control. If I wake up and am in a not so pleasant mood, I immediately go for pink. For serenity, I wear blues and for courage red. I literally wrap myself in the emotion I want to feel and exert.

Lately, I have been gravitating towards bold colors and patterns like I am wearing here. I am at a point in my professional life, where I would like to take on more responsibility and accountability. Recognition does not come easily, and at times I have found myself questioning why I am continually pushing to do more and be more. As I strive to be a capable and strong woman, I turn to my wardrobe for support. Now please don’t take me too literally. Throwing on a yellow shirt won’t make you feel like the sun is shining out your rear, but it can act as a reminder of the mindset you want to feel and exude. Knowing yourself, your triggers and your influencers gives you that much more of an edge on your own life. So much of our world is beyond our control, so why not grab hold of the things we can. For me, style is empowering. It is my backbone and sometimes my shield. Regardless of outcome, I will always know that I approached the world with confidence and looked damn good doing it ;) .  

Wearing Theory shirt dress, Jack Rabbit belt, vintage Gucci watch, Juicy Couture clutch and Cole Haan by Maria Sharapova wedges.

Fringe & Free People

Fall is my absolute favorite time of year, and we have had some gorgeous weather in Chi lately. Keep it up Mother Nature! Sweaters, boots and brisk air — it just doesn’t get better! Free People has some fab sweaters out this season. I absolutely love the one I’m wearing here. By the way, THANKS MOM! (It was one of my b-day presents.) A note to all the sweater shoppers out there. Check the tags!! Try to avoid items that are made primarily of acrylic. Merino wool and cashmere are two of my favorite fabrics, and they are so soft! They may cost more, but they will last longer! Happy shopping! Wearing Free People sweater, Seven for all Mankind jeans, Another Line Inc. belt, Chanel necklace and Chinese Laundry boots.

Snake Print

Snake print is all the rage, and when done right — it can be wonderful. Here are a few of my favorite pieces using the trend.

1. Stuart Weitzman Heritage Heel

2. Top Shop Snake Print Tights

3. Of Two Minds Danna Snake Print Dress

4. Valentino One-of-a-Kind Snake Print Satchel

5. Kara Ross Python Link Bracelet 

Color Me Purple

I‘m a big fan of dressing within a single color family. Something about the similar hues gives a look added impact and drama. The leopard booties are a funky addition to the preppy purple ensemble. Odd and unexpected touches are my favorite way to create a look that is my own. You can do the same by adding your own finishing touches to your ensembles. Whether it be a metallic belt or chandelier earrings, surprising pieces add depth and make your look unique.  Wearing Polo Ralph Lauren cable knit sweater and polo, Burberry jeans, Valentino sunglasses, Chan Luu Bracelet, Rebecca Minkoff bag, vintage amethyst ring, and House of Harlow booties.

Sunday Smiles: Pumpkin Carving

Last night my sister hosted a pumpkin carving party — SOO fun! There’s nothing like getting elbow deep in pumpkin guts! For those of you who haven’t carved your pumpkins yet, I highly recommend that you purchase a carving kit (available at Michaels). Thanks to the tools, we created the most masterful pumpkins of our lives! Of course, my artistic brainiac of a fiance took carving to a whole new level, creating a creepy sculpted face. The pictures don’t do it justice. I still think my bat signal is the coolest though, sorry sis! And we are yet to figure out what Chris’s carving is (far left)? haha Have a fabulous Sunday everyone! 

Sherbet Smackers

 

This year at NY Fashion Week, make-up artists at Nanette Lepore created a sherbet color palette for the model’s lipstick. Needless to say, I was obsessed and had to try and recreate the look. Now I am not sure I would ever wear the blue, but it is perfect for a Ke$ha Halloween costume. 

Because these aren’t typical lipstick colors, tracking them down was a bit difficult. However, I discovered that jumbo eye crayons like this one here  are a great substitue for lipstick — and they come in TONS OF FUN COLORS!! The consistency is pretty similar, but if you find yourself experiencing a drying effect from the eye crayon, blend a lip balm like carmex on top to help distribute the color evenly. I also used actual eye shadows, which I blended with lip balm on the back of my hand to modify the colors. So, if there is a certain special color you are dying to have, you can make it on your own! 

With Halloween just around the corner, keep these tips in mind when creating makeup looks that require funky colors! 

Sunday Smiles: Wedding Inspiration

It has been a while since I have posted — a bit preoccupied with life and wedding stuff. David and I have been engaged for 10 months and finally set a date this past week! September 1, 2012! Super exciting.

Thought it would be fun to share inspiration for the look and feel of everything. My gown is a timeless Oscar de la Renta masterpiece, so I am trying to keep everything classy but with a sweet touch. I love the idea of everything being shades of ivory all the way to a metallic champagne with hints of blush and pink.

We also want to tie in elements from both Catholic and Jewish traditions. The upper right-hand picture is a chuppah, which symbolizes the home that the couple will build together. Sentiment is very important to us!

Would love to hear your thoughts or ideas? Happy Sunday!