Rodarte for MAC

The Mulleavy sisters have been busy doing things, other than working on their clothing line. Kate and Laura designed fabric to be sold at Knoll Luxe, and now they have their makeup collection for MAC ready to be launched September 15, 2010.

Like their fall/winter Rodarte collection, Kate and Laura said their makeup collection is inspired by Texas border towns. The sisters took a road trip through West Texas and saw how the immigrants live. Many immigrants work in maquiladoras, are very poor and live in towns with high crime rates. The models were pale, with disheveled hair and clothing patched together with many different fabrics and textures. It was sad and beautiful at the same time.

Photo from Temptalia

Now, the makeup collection is catching heat with the names given to the products, namely, a nail lacquer called Juarez. Ciudad Júarez is in the Mexican state of Chihuahua, just across the Rio Grande from El Paso, Texas. The city exemplifies border towns- violent crime, poor, abundant drug use, prostitution and factory work.

When people realized the condition of the city the nail polish is named for, they called for MAC to help the residents. MAC pledged to donate a portion of the money from the sale of the collection. However, just a day later, MAC has announced that some of the items will be renamed before the September 15 launch.

The collection will be available in MAC stores, online and select department store counters. Luckily, our friends at Temptalia got their hands on the collection early.

Lipstick

Ghost Town: Sheer white, with white, green and gold pearl (frost, limited edition)

Rose State: Mid tone blue pink (lustre, limited edition)

Sleepless: Light grey taupe (frost, limited edition)

Lipglass

Rodarte: Pale, creamy pink with layers of sparkling white, green and pink (limited edition)

del Norte: Light, creamy violet with layers of sheer sparkling taupe, pink and grey (limited edition)

Rodarte for MAC Lipglass in Rodarte, Photo from Hint

Lip Erase

Pale: NC27 (matte, permanent Pro)

Mineralize Eyesahdow

Bordertown: Black with red, silver and pale blue veining (frost, limited edition)

Sleepwalker: Beige with copper, pale pink and pale blue veining (frost, limited edition)

Rodarte for MAC Mineralize Eyeshadow in Sleepwalker, Photo from Hint

Pigment

White Gold: White pearl with gold duochrome (permanent Pro)

Kitchmas: Shimmering pink (permanent)

Mauvement: Cool taupe with gold pearl (limited edition)

Badlands: Shimmering mid tone beige brown (limited edition)

Chromographic Pencil

NW25 & NC30: Flesh tone (matte, permanent Pro)

Beauty Powder

Softly Drifting: Neutral pale white-pink with soft gold peal (limited edition)

Rodarte for MAC Beauty Powder in Softly Drifting, Photo from Hint

Blush

Quinceanera: Shimmering mid tone blue pink (limited edition)

Nail Lacquer

Juarez: Bright opal pink (frost, limited edition)

Factory: Light opal mint (frost, limited edition)

Stay tuned for the product name changes!

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Mommy-To-Be Chic

Designer duds are available for babies, toddlers and children; there are even Cynthia Rowley diapers (see Oh, Baby! post). Why shouldn't mommy look her best at this special time?

I remember my mom wearing some pretty awful clothes when she was pregnant with my younger brother, now 24. Luckily, there are chic maternity clothes today.

J Brand Maternity Pencil Leg Jeans, $196 from Shop Bop

Instead of wearing huge t-shirts, baggy sweat pants and frumpy lingerie and swimsuits, pregnant women have many flattering belly options. Women are celebrating their expanding tummies and their sweet baby waiting to be born.

Paige Premium Denim Maternity Union Jeggings, $179 from Shop Bop

Full disclosure: I'm not pregnant, nor ever have been, but I know mothers-to-be are looking for comfort and still want to feel like their old selves.

Emily English Garden Nursing Bra, $27.25 from Shop Style

Cotton is the go to comfort fabric since it is natural and breathable. Also, in order to feel like your pre-pregnant self, you shouldn't dramatically change your style. Embrace your new, and changing body, but keep some of the elements that make you happy- like bright colors, tank tops, shorts, jeans, dresses, embellishments or whatever else makes you feel great.

Maternity Peplum Tunic, $70 from Top Shop

Wrap dresses are a great option since you can adjust the wrap tie as your size changes. This will give the piece a bit more longevity and you can possibly continue wearing it shortly (notice I said shortly, do not wear maternity clothes after the baby is born for very long) after your bundle of joy has arrived.

Maternity Tea Dress, $90 from Top Shop

Leggings and jeggings are so popular because they are super comfortable, yet stylish. Tunics and dresses are great maternity wear, and when the weather turns cooler, or if you just don't want to show your legs, throwing on a pair of leggings is a quick fix.

Moody Mamas Maternity Nursing Maxi Dress, $44.99 from Target

I know it is a big expense to purchase a new wardrobe, especially when your body is constantly changing and shifting. But, you will feel so much better about your expanding butt, sore feet and baby bump if you look your best. It isn't necessary to buy a ton of new clothing- just a few key pieces that you can wear to work and casual nights out.

Maternity Contrast Shrug, $55 from Top Shop

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Photos from Shop Bop, Target, Top Shop

My Favorite Lines Series: BCBG

Bon chic, bon genre. Good style, good class. Max Azria, the fashion mogul, sure knew what he was talking about when naming his first label. Now, the native of Tunisia, designs for multiple labels and is the CEO and chairman of the BCBGMAXAZRIA Group, which includes 22 brands.

BCBG Epaulet Sleeve Dress, $178

Azria spent 11 years in working in Paris before relocating to Los Angeles in 1981. It was in LA that he started BCBG in 1989. Success followed, and he was inducted into the CFDA in 1998. Though Azria aquired Hervé Léger in that same year, it wasn't until 2007 that he revived the once great house with his own designs, but still paying homage to the original concept of the bandage dress.

BCBG Draped Kimono Sleeve Printed Tunic, $99

In 2004 Azria began designing gowns for celebrities under the Max Azria Atelier label. Two years later, in 2006, Azria launched another line simply called Max Azria. The ever creative Azria saw room for yet another line: BCBGeneration. Plus, you can always peruse the BCBG Runway line for the latest in fashion.

BCBG Cropped Faux Suede Jacket, $198

I am a fan of all of Azria's work, but the BCBG line is what introduced me to the designer. The ruffles, flowers, delicate fabric and other feminine details are balanced with contemporary ideas making it an all around favorite.

BCBG Sequin Detail Romper, $168

BCBG is great at making clothing for every woman, whether she works in a corporate office, is an on-the-run mom or a fixture on the charity scene. In fact, while I was looking for some pictures for this post, I bought a pair of strappy platform sandals and two cocktail rings. I need help!

BCBG Strapless Pleated Gown, $448

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Photos from BCBG

Seeing Seersucker

The cotton, striped, crinkly (ironing not required!) fabric often brings up visions of Southern gentlemen sitting on a veranda. But, seersucker has been picking up steam since last summer.

Trovata Peace Blazer, $169.99 from Blue Fly

Although, men do need to be careful not to wear too much seersucker or risk looking like an overgrown frat boy. Guys should pick out one piece of seersucker clothing to wear at a time, and select neutral combos, like black/white or khaki/white.

Vince Stretch Seersucker Pants, $64.75 from Bloomingdale's

Ladies, we have more options. For example, Diane von Furstenburg offers silken seersucker dresses. This is an unexpected twist to the traditional seersucker; it also dresses up a normally casual fabric.

Thread Social Seersucker Dresss with Bow, $364 from Shop Bop

Miss Issippi Dress in River, $57.99 from Mod Cloth

Pair your seersucker with colorful, chunky sandals, like Boutique 9's Joanna orange raffia sandals or Report Signature's Masonic 2 coral platform sandals.

Ditch the pearls and wear updated seersucker this Labor Day.

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Photos from Blue Fly, Bloomingdale's, Shop Bop, Mod Cloth

Nail Polish With Staying Power

Several months ago I got a goody bag full of samples from Ulta (free with order of $25+ at Ulta.com). Among the samples was Essence Multi-Dimensional 3 in 1 nail polish in Object of Desire (a pinky coral). Since I am my own personal manicurist, and I always have my nails painted, I was happy to try a new product.

I usually use MAC nail laquer or Sally Hansen; with these brands my nails stay chip-free for about a week and at the end of a week and half my nails need to be redone. This is typical of most nail polishes, and of course the length of wear depends on how hard you are on your hands.

Essence Multi Dimensional 3 in 1 Nail Polish

So, you can imagine my surprise when my nails painted with Essence Multi-Dimensional 3 in 1 nail polish was still fully intact after over a week of wear and hardcore cleaning, even dog bathing. The other great thing about this nail polish is that when I was ready to take it off, I was able to remove it easily and it didn't stain my nails at all.

The bad news? I can't find this nail polish anywhere! Ulta carries Essence Colour and Go and Essence Nail Art Freestyle & Tip Painter. From what I did find, it appears this nail polish is available in several European countries and is between 2-3€ (about $3-4).

Keep checking the web, drug stores and beauty stores!

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Fabric of Your Sole

Take a look in your closet. Most of your shoes are probably leather, suede or faux leather. But, there are other options- like fabric! Fabric is great because it gives you a variety of textures, colors and patterns to chose from.

Fendi Taupe Ruched Tulle Sandals, $796 from Blue Fly

Most people are familiar with the logo canvas shoes that Coach, Fendi, Gucci and other designer brands offer. Also, you know the dreaded silk dyeable shoe that bridezillas foist upon their poor bridesmaids. But, there are more options in fabric shoes than logo gear or bright white satin ready for that perfect raspberry tint demanded by the bride.

Prada Red Matte Fabric and Rattan Wedge, $520 from Blue Fly

Louboutin Parisienne 120 Chiffon Pumps, $716 from Blue Fly

You will get a multitude of compliments on your unique shoes. The good thing? Just because you shoes are unique, doesn't mean they are not versatile. Pair colorful shoes with the obvious neutrals, but also try contrasting colors or wearing a color in the fabric pattern to make it pop (like teal or yellow with the Louboutin above).

Report Signature Watts Satin Pumps, $119 rom Blue Fly

No one will mistake you for a bridesmaid in stain shoes with tough, yet chic, details like zippers, spikes or studs.

Dolce & Gabbana Grosgrain Strappy Peep Toe Pumps, $440 from Blue Fly

Lanvin Wool Bow Tie Platform Sandal, $716 from Blue Fly

Tulle and chiffon are too light for the colder months, so, try a heavier fabric, like wool.

Leather is tried and true, but give fabric a chance!

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Photos from Blue Fly

Be Chic While You Snooze

Most of us are guilty of wearing less than stylish clothing to sleep in; I know I am. I have stacks of t-shirts that were demoted from normal wear to sleepwear. But, does my husband really want to cuddle with me when I'm wearing clothes that I have rejected from everyone else seeing me in? Most likely, no.

Maxey Pink Ombre Set, $24.99 from Blue Fly

Even if you don't have a husband, boyfriend or even a roommate, you deserve to look good even when you are just watching tv before bed. Cute pj's make you feel good!

Look for cotton pajamas that are not too tight and not too loose. Cotton is breathable, soft and durable through many washes.

Undrest White French Terry Bow Shorts, $34.99 from Blue Fly

Also, think about your temperature. I am always cold before bed, but get hot during the night. I like to wear pj pants (cotton in the summer and flannel in the winter) before bed while watching TV, but shorts for sleeping. For me, t-shirts are bothersome and tanks or camisoles work best.

Pledge to get rid of old t-shirts, stretched out tanks and shorts with worn out elastic!

Victoria's Secret Soft Angel Tee, $9.99

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Photos from BlueFly, Victoria's Secret

My Favorite Lines Series: CC Skye

This series began to highlight some of my favorite designers and lines, so I figure that jewelry designer and lines count too! It's my blog and I get to make the rules around here :)

CC Skye Pave Iron Cross Bracelet, $74 from Billion Dollar Babes

CC Skye is described as a glam goth, which is a good assessment of the line. Think spikes, but in polished gold with pearls. Or maybe a safety pin necklace with rhinestones appeals to the punk in you.

CC Skye Zipper Pull Necklace, $39 from Beyond the Rack

CC Skye, named after the designer, is consistently on the top of "best" lists. It is easy to see why with the playful, yet polished pieces in the collection. You can easily wear any of CC Skye's pieces during the day or at night to give your look an edge.

CC Skye Wicked Bracelet, $109 from Billion Dollar Babes

Though CC is based in Los Angles, she started making jewelry in Nepal while on a half-year trip abroad. She not only crafted jewelry, but made her own clothing too. Now, the CC Skye brand includes bags, as well as jewelry. Maybe we'll see a clothing line in the future.

CC Skye Vintage Cocktail Ring in Onyx, $75 from Beyond the Rack

Celeb fans include Kim Kardashian, Katy Perry, Whitney Port, Halle Berry, Jessica Alba and more. You can accessorize like the celebrities with CC Sky since pieces start at only $95!

Pave Knuckle Ring, $175 from CC Skye

Shop for CC Syke on their site, Nordstrom, Bloomingdales, Nieman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and a myriad of online retailers.

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Photos from Beyond the Rack, Billion Dollar Babes, CC Skye

Perfect Your Figure

I recently discovered Arbonne, thanks to the fabulous Christina Hayward. Their RE9 anti-aging skincare set is nothing short of amazing! I was so impressed with the products, that I became a preferred client and bought lots of goodies, including a surprise grab bag ($29 with purchase).

Excitedly, I tore open the large box and went straight for the surprise grab bag items. Arbonne gave me lots of great products, but my new favorite is the Figure 8 Vanish.

Arbonne Figure 8 Vanish, $40, 6 oz.

Figure 8 Vanish is a serum that smooths your skin and helps eliminate the appearance of cellulite. I had been using a generic firming lotion that claims to do the same, but after just one use of the Figure 8 Vanish on my thighs and butt, I could tell a difference!

Even though I workout daily and eat healthily, I still have cellulite. Cellulite seems to be a problem for everyone, no matter how hard they try to get rid of it. But, Figure 8 Vanish has made my skin smoother, firmer and tighter to the touch and has reduced the appearance of cellulite.

Each night I have used a silver dollar sized amount of the serum, rubbing in circular motions until absorbed, on my thighs and butt. Though I saw results after one use, the results became more pronounced with each use.

Figure 8 Vanish is a must for swimsuit season, but, I don't want to go back to my old thighs and butt the rest of the year. I guess I'm hooked now!

Shop online or contact Christina Hayward for more information regarding Arbonne, becoming a preferred client (20% off your orders!), or becoming a consultant (35% off your orders!).

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Photo from Arbonne

Travel in Style

Toss out that backpack, duffel bag with stains and beat up suitcase! When you look so good, you shouldn't leave your luggage looking worn out.

Coach Signature Luggage Duffel Handbag, $635 from Avelle

Now, I'm not one that believes in purchasing Gucci or Louis Vuitton luggage only to see the baggage handlers throw it into the cargo department without a care. I do believe that you should have nice, stylish and affordable luggage. Slinging that old gym bag into the overhead compartment does not look good.

Deux Lux Black Woven Faux Leather Overnight Bag, $83 from Blue Fly

If you must have a designer piece of luggage, get the overnight bag since you will be handling it with care. Look for sturdy handles and straps; if you are buying in a store and not online, try out the bag. Make sure the straps don't dig into your shoulder too much and that it isn't too awkward to carry. Once you get the bag home, give it a go- put all the clothing, shoes and toiletries you would take on a three day weekend trip. If the bag isn't functional, take it back and find something that will better suit your needs.

Gucci Tobacco Trim GG Large Canvas Travel Duffel, $985 from Avelle

As a frequent traveler, I find it most useful to have two suitcases: one small for short trips and one huge for long trips, vacations and trips where I know I'll be coming home with more than I left with. I'm an overpacker too- you never know if you will need knee-high boots!

Intensity 20" Expandable Mobile Traveler, $475 from Hartmann

Be sure to try out the suitcase by rolling it around, moving the handle up and down, and checking out the zipper and all the compartments. The exterior should be durable and waterproof. Avoid fabrics that could easily be snagged and exterior compartments or anything hanging off the luggage that could be damaged during transit. Make sure that whichever suitcase you choose, that you will not be heartbroken if the bag gets scuffed, marked on, squished or wet.

Vapor Extended Trip Packing Case, $545 from Tumi

When you get the luggage home, give it a test run, just like with the overnight bag. Make sure your blow dryer, makeup, multiple pairs of shoes, jeans and everything else you'll need will fit easily (and without going over the 50 pound limit!).

Delsey Helium HyperLite 29" Upright, $340 from Bloomingdale's

Go ahead and fill out the luggage tag now; this way you won't forget to fill in the information in the packing and rush to the airport frenzy. Helpful hint: at the airport fill out the luggage tag provided by the airline and include the phone number of the place you will be staying at your destination.

Tepper Jackson Luggage Tags, $14.99 from Traveling Chic

You can even get a matching passport wallet! Live in style and travel in style!

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Photos from BlueFly, Hartmann, Tumi, Bloomingdale's, Traveling Chic

Hit the Gym in Style

People make an excuse that doesn't make much sense when it comes to working out: "I can't go to the gym because I don't look good enough." Hello! You are going to the gym to look better than you do now, but you don't have to go there looking bad.

Working out is a key part of living a long, healthy, happy life. Whether you go to Pilates class, Body Pump, decide to run on the treadmill or just do P90X at home, wearing a comfortable and flattering gym outfit can give a confidence boost to keep your booty working out.

Under Armour Duplicity 2 Sports Bra, $40 from REI

I like bright, bold colors in workout gear to keep my spirits up. How bad can it be when you are wearing a lime green sports bra with matching socks? If you normally shy away from bright colors, give them a try at the gym. You can get away with those colors there, plus bright colors will cheer you up. I love stretching and seeing my multi-colored striped ankle socks. I may be sweating, but I'm also smiling!

Retro Cats Anklet Socks, $7.99 from Absolute Socks

Your personal comfort is key, but I like to pair my sports bras or workout tops with biker-type black shorts. This is a foolproof way to always have a matching gym outfit- just grab any top and any pair of shorts. If you would feel more comfortable in running shorts, leggings or yoga pants, find some that work for you.

C9 Champion Bike Shorts, $14.99 from Target

I am a sweater, so sports bras that look nice, are supportive and fit well are a must since I take off my t-shirt or tank right away. It is so important to try on tops you will wear in the gym. When you try them on (buy them and try them on at home if you must), run, jump, kick, stretch, do some sit-ups and any other exercises you can think of to make sure you are comfortable. When you find a brand and style you like, buy enough to last a week; this way you won't have to do laundry and won't have any excuses not to workout.

C9 Champion Running Tank in Rose Black, $18.99 from Target

In the fall and winter, I like fitted camis or tanks. They keep you cool, but cover your tummy in the cool air. The thin, long sleeve, fitted tops are great in the winter. I'm in a warm climate and shorts, leggings and yoga pants can be worn in the winter. But, if you do live in cold climate, layer your workout clothing for warmth, but also in case you get too hot, you can easily lose layers. A hat, fleece gloves and warm socks may be needed for the coldest days.

Comfortable shoes are so important. Do not skimp when it comes to buying your gym shoes. Try on several pairs and run, walk, jump and kick in your shoes before you buy them. When you try on your workout shoes, wear the type of socks you will typically wear to the gym. After finding my perfect brand and style of shoes, I bought three pairs at once when they were on sale!

SkirtSports RunnersDream Long Sleeve Shirt, $55 from REI

I'll admit when I'm in the gym, my hair and makeup must be somewhat done. I like to wear a headband to keep fly aways in check, but also put my hair in a ponytail to stay cool. I also like to give my lashes a coat of waterproof mascara and dab on some lipglosss.

French Couture Split Headband, $6 from Ulta

These little things make me feel more confident when I'm sweating and grunting through one-armed-push-ups.

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Photos from REI, Ulta, Absolute Socks, Target

Oh, Baby!

Adult brands like Gap, Old Navy, Abercrombie & Fitch, JCrew and others have children and baby lines. Parents want their mini-me's to be just as fashionable as they are since parents see their children as a reflection of themselves. But, everyone knows that babies and children rapidly outgrow clothes and shoes, they are messy and a tear in something is nothing new.

Gucci Boys Spring 2011, Photo from Style Pantry

Gucci Girls Spring 2011, Photo from Style Pantry

Despite the short period of time children can wear clothes before growing out of them, or ruining them, trendy parents are not just buying Baby Gap, but Marc Jacobs and other high end designer duds. Gucci's Boys and Girls lines are due Spring 2011, Fendi debuted children's line and Cynthia Rowley has even teamed with Pampers for designer diapers to be sold at Target.

Cynthia Rowley for Pampers at Target, Photo from Luxist

While itty bitty Uggs are awfully adorable, I just do not think I could justify spending that much dough on baby or children's clothing that will inevitably be vomited on, muddied and discarded when outgrown.

Burberry Infant Hooded Footed Pajama, $220 from Bloomingdale's

Big prices for small clothes seem to be a continuing trend. Your baby or toddler won't know who Marc Jacobs is, but you have to decide if a $65 (on sale from $94) bathing suit is worth the envious stares from other mommies.

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