Summer Styles in the South of France

The 2011 Cannes Film Festival brought a select bevy of starlets to the South of France and the white hot styles hitting the red carpet this year were anything but boring. Bound to be all the rage this summer, lighter shades in organic fabrics are not only keeping the ladies cool, but the gents as well. We saw everything from floor length formals to fun and flirty to sophisticated and elegant a la' Rachel McAdams in a lovely white dress from Maxime Simoens Couture and subtly stylish peep toe pumps by Salvatore Ferragamo. Her Midnight in Paris co-star, Owen Wilson, charmed the crowds in a casual white suit by Calvin Klein. Similar styles can be achieved quite easily, and purchased for considerably less at one of my favorite places to shop H&M. So this summer, whether partying it up on a white hot summer night or a spending a day on the town under the beautiful summer sun, keep it classic, clean and cool in the light bright shade of white.

How to Get Jennifer Aniston's Dark New 'Do

From the sweet lovable Rachael on Friends to the incredible shock Doc Julia the man eating dentist in Horrible Bosses, the almost unrecognizable Jennifer Aniston rocks dark locks and sultry long bangs in her role opposite Charlie Day who plays her assistant Dale. This must see comedy has a dark side but  we were mostly drawn to Jennifer Aniston's new hairdo. This style sweetie is a constant trendsetter in the wonderful world of hair and to get her new look we've incorporated three easy steps.

step one: Purchase Clairol Natural Instincts Hair Color over the counter in two shades darker than your current color or one shade lighter if your hair is very dark. Clairol Natural Instincts is a very safe choice when coloring hair at home. It offers soft natural shades, that deposit color molecules safely and temporarily to hair without destroying the natural integrity of the hair strand itself. It fades nicely so as not to reveal drastic roots and is easy to use. We recommend the shade Chocolate Creme but be sure to check the shade palette on the side of the box according to your current color. Always read and follow directions completely, and make sure to do a strand test before going all the way. If possible consult a professional stylist to have your hair colored into the sumptuous dark look that Aniston is sporting.

step two: Find your crown and brush front layers forward to create long bangs, trim a little at a time and do not go any shorter than your eye brows. Her style gently sweeps the top of her lashes drawing attention to her eyes. Never trim past the temples, use the outer edge of your eyebrows as a guide to go by. Always cut bangs dry and once again, if at all possible, consult a trusted professional hairstylist.

step three: leave hair long and blow dry smooth, then add volume to pack a devastating punch! Even though she plays a bad girl, her style looked incredibly sweet when pulled back into a ponytail at work, and even better when she let it down to eat an odd assortment of food. So next time your thinking of switching things up a bit, a dramatic hairstyle can certainly do the trick.

Billboard Beauties

The 2011 Billboard Music Awards featured some of the music industry's top named talent, and some of the top named talent featured some super lux looks sporting everything from casual to to glamorous on the red carpet. This event often offers a little more fashion freedom than other strictly formal occasions, so viewers got a chance to see some of music's singing starlets hit the red carpet in everything from casual cool slacks, to stunning sophisticated gowns. Out of all the different looks three distinct styles caught our attention.

Rihanna sported a more contemporary and casual look with white Max Azria Suit, a classic white blouse, subtle Solange Azagury-Partridge gold tassel necklace and beige Christian Louboutin heels. Her bright red locks effortless styled and her pink lips pristine.

Taylor Swift went classic Hollywood glam in a gorgeous champagne Elie Saab gown, and earrings and bracelet by Lorraine Schwartz. Her long wavy golden locks side parted over one shoulder, framed her  ruby lips perfectly. 

Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum looked lovely in a black Mandalay ruched silk chiffon dress and Giuseppe Zanotti  platform peep toe slingbacks. She accessorized with a Le Vian gold diamond ring and Isharya bracelet. Her look was nicely played bringing about sophistication and style. The shades of makeup used were subtle accentuating her natural beauty and vivacious glow.

Gardens Gone Wild

Extend your living quarters to the outdoors by creating a lovely little oasis using hardy plants and pretty pots. Whether a small patio or barely there balcony these simple tips should help the girl with the not so green thumb have the durable long lasting garden of her dreams. Patio perfection is easy to create and can be the ideal space for entertaining this summer. From brunch with the girls to cocktails with dinner guests at six, your patio or balcony can become the perfect place to entertain guests.  Depending on the amount of sunlight your outdoor area gets, most potted plants such as annuals, shrubs and trees bring in just the right amount of color and greenery to liven up any drab outdoor area. Study the amount of sun to shade ratio your patio or balcony receives throughout the day then plant accordingly. If your patio is relatively sunny use plants and foliage which can withstand the heat. If your patio is relatively cool, or only gets partial sunlight use plants and flowers which will thrive in the shade. Trees and shrubs with shiny leaves need less water and require less maintenance which is definitely something to keep in mind. A sitting area such as a bench, chair or even patio dinette set makes it comfortable to relax and enjoy the fresh air. Lighting is necessary if you choose to entertain guests in the evening hours. Small white lights or a dim sconce make for a romantic and inviting place for guests to retreat to. Make it clean, classic and fabulous using colors that you love and plants that make you happy. That way, the soirees you host this summer, will be the best indoors and out!

DIY Makeover: Six Steps to Shock and Awe

Every girl deserves to feel like a princess, but sometimes the privilege of a personal entourage of  isn't available to the everyday girl. So when the opportunity of a do it yourself makeover presented itself I decided to take part. Instead of expensive stylists and designer wardrobe pieces the DIY makeover consists entirely of resourcing what you have and what is readily available to you. To make myself over in a matter of moments and with minimal expense, I followed these simple steps:





1. Begin by generously applying a healing treatment to the face and neck. If you suffer from dry skin moisturize using creams you already have. If you tend to suffer from blemishes treat them effectively with spot treatment products.

2. While the beauty treatments are healing apply a semi-permanent hair color such as Clairol Natural Instincts. Remain within two shades of your current hair color and apply the product according to directions. 

3. Paint your nails while your color is processing, being careful  not exceed the recommended processing time.

4. Rinse and condition hair then apply a shine serum before blow drying and styling. Choose a look that flatters the shape of your face, and style in way which you normally wouldn't. For example if you tend to wear your hair up often, then by all means let it down, or if your tresses usually fall where they may then style them into a sophisticated updo.

5. Makeup should be used to emphasize your natural beauty. You want to look enhanced and brilliant without looking completely foreign to your friends. Use the shades you are used to using, but apply them differently. The internet is a magnificent source for professional techniques in cosmetic application. Check out the how to videos on YouTube and fashion magazine websites.

6. When it comes to wardrobe the under garments are just as important as the outer ones. In this respect Victoria's Secret has a wonderful array of well fitting bras to hoist up what other bras tend to smash down. A properly fitting bra can make all the difference in the lift, posture, and stride of us women. As can a well defined pair of stilettos, preferably in beige which will be an asset to any girls closet. Accessorize a figure flattering dress with a classic clutch, and some detailed jewelry pieces. Finally add a spritz of designer fragrance. Choose something different than your usual signature scent.

You may just find that the reactions you receive are absolutely incredible!