StyleWhipped

Beauty Spotlight: beecause Lip Balm

Admittedly, I am not such a beauty product junkie. I am not the girl who will try every new color trend (neon green eyelids? no thanks...), and I have a minor heart attack if the drugstore is out of the same Mabelline Great Lash Mascara I've used for the past eight years (saying that I am a creature of habit is an understatement). But therefore, when I find a product I like, I stick with it. Forever. (Or until it is discontinued...at which point I have a major heart attack.)

One product I can't live without is good lip balm. I'm not such a lipstick person (I wear a ton of eye make-up and need to keep my lips pretty simple), but all year-round, I am always on the hunt for the perfect lip balm for a little protection (from the cold in the winter and the sun in the summer) and a little kissable shine. I prefer a tube (I'm not such a fan of those messy pots), and am very picky about flavor (anything chemical-ly or overly sweet is out immediately). So when the brand-new beecause lip balm arrived at the Stylewhipped offices, I was instantly in love...

Not only does this one come in a perfectly sized little tube with pretty packaging, but it is 100% natural, made from a beeswax base (get it? "beecause"...), and has a certified organic status. It contains zero parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals or phthalates, and is "CCIC Leaping Bunny Certified," meaning none of our beloved little animals are used in testing it. Even that pretty packaging is recyclable and completely earth-friendly. But the even more important thing here (c'mon, we love the do-good-er stuff, but we really also want a quality product!) is that this is some seriously amazing lip balm! It is peppermint flavored (with a subtle hint of honey from the actual beeswax it's made from), it goes on super easily, doesn't leave that icky film, and makes your lips soft, smooth and make-up (or kissing) ready.

Your lips (and maybe someone else's) will thank you for this one. I know mine are.

~ Alison.

Danielle Aspromatis Special Post: The Gossip Girl Wedding...XOXO!

Whether you are a Gossip Girl fan or not, Blair Waldorf's wedding was worth watching last night just to watch the fashion! SPOILER--Looks like Blair's marriage with the Prince is not going to make it, but at least we got some amazing dresses to look at! I love the color blush, and I love Vera Wang, so I couldn't take my eyes off my DVR this morning...stunning! Chic, feminine, romantic and just PERFECT! Serena's Vera Wang Maid of Honor dress is actually a wedding dress on Vera's line. I LOVED it! I was shocked that Blair wore her hair down but so glad she did...Leighton Meester and the whole cast looked stunning in last nights episode! I'm still hoping Blair goes back to Chuck Bass...

XOXO,

Danielle

 

Danielle Aspromatis: All You Need Is Love

Valentines Day we all know is a commercial holiday...of course, you SHOULD treat your husbands, wives, boyfriends, girlfriends, friends and family with love and kindness everyday. BUT-- since the lovely people at Hallmark insist on making one special day out of the year for Love, Love, Love....you might as well embrace it in style! If you have a significant other-- why spend tons of money on a prix fixed dinner out? Make a homemade valentine, spruce up your table and cook for your significant other (or cook together!)

Single? Organize a girls night out dinner to celebrate how wonderful your friends are or have friends over for dinner and dessert! Valentines Day should be a celebration of EVERYONE that you love in your life! A great idea for a girls dinner is doing a Secret Cupid...everyone brings a grab bag fun gift under a certain amount of money and celebrates together! If you have a group of friends that are mixed between single and in relationships...organize your dinner for a night neighboring the 14th so you can all be together!

Lots of love,

Danielle

 

 

 

p.s. - No time to put into setting an elaborate table? Pick these plates up from Crate and Barrel...with a red table cloth and a vase of white flowers, you are all set!

Letter from the Editor: We Even Used a Whip!

Two weeks ago, I had the incredible pleasure of being photographed by the super talented (and so much fun) photographer Stephen Ciuccoli. Stephen's studio is in Connecticut, so Stylewhipped's Men's Director Joseph Ungoco and I made the drive up for the day. Stephen photographs everything from headshots to fashion week shows to major advertising campaigns, and everything in-between. His welcoming manner and very cool taste in music (!) makes every shoot with him a memorable one.

I am notorious for having something in my eye. It is a running joke with my entire family and most of my friends (hey, I wear enough eye make-up to make a drag queen proud and I have contacts!). So when the amazing, in-demand make-up artist Reiva Cruze (who was on-hand for the big event) suggested fake eyelashes, I instantly went into crisis mode. (I loooooove fake eyelashes, they just don't like me!) But with her insanely steady hand, individual, went-on-for-yards eyelashes were applied. And, um, I kept them on for days. Reiva also introduced me to how fantastic matte navy eyeshadow looks on me. (Cue scene of me running to the make-up counter immediately after the shoot...)

Once I was photo-ready, shooting with Stephen was the most entertaining, easiest time I've ever had in front of a still camera. He made me feel like a supermodel, approved of the fact that I really felt it necessary to wear a ballgown (you know, it was a Tuesday...), and instinctively knew which was my "best side" before he even took one shot. And once we were done shooting my "regular" headshots, we brought in my one little prop...a braided leather whip that Joseph had brought with us (get it? Style-WHIP-ped...!). The photo that ended up being my very favorite (and is now my headshot on here) is one of me with the whip, coyly coiled in my hand. Joseph even jumped in with me, and we had too much fun creating silly -- yet still fabulous, of course -- images with us and that whip.

Check out all the final favorites below. And next time you need a photographer, call Stephen. And next time you need your skin to look thatgood, call Reiva.

~ Alison.

Rebecca Gordon: Yoga with a Side of Comedy

Once or twice each year, I decide I am going to take up yoga.  Given all my running and the general hyper-activity of my life, yoga seems like a good idea for my mind and body.  Also, it meets my criteria for exercise* and I hope to one day have amazing arms like my sister-in-law.   When I say “take up yoga”, what I really mean is I am going to spend a few weeks talking about how I am going to take up yoga and then never follow through on my plans.  So except for the brief period in business school where I took a combo spin/yoga class with my friend Katherine, I have made no effort to actually “take up yoga.”  At least until my friend Sarah asked if I wanted to check out a yoga place she found in our neighborhood.  What follows is the true story of what we experienced on Saturday afternoon.

Everything started off normal enough – the instructor introduced herself to us, people laid out their yoga mats and I started worrying that I was about to humiliate myself in a room full of strangers.  This is where normal ended. Before class officially started, a woman shared a story about how she recently stood in a coffee shop vestibule with Alec Baldwin while they both played on their cell phones. The instructor commented that it was “romantic”. Now I like Alec Baldwin more than the next person, but nothing about standing in a vestibule while not talking to or looking at Alec Baldwin (or any person) sounds romantic and I am not leaving out any part of the story. The whole story was: “Last week I stood in a coffee shop vestibule with Alec Baldwin while we both played on our cell phones.”  And the instructor found this romantic and the storyteller agreed. 

Class started and I was glad the weird chatter was over.  But it turns out the yoga instructor fancies herself a bit of a comedian and the weird chatter continued.  Early on in the class she suggested we try to become Facebook friends with Alec Baldwin’s girlfriend and a few minutes later she told us to either focus on our form or think about Alec Baldwin.  When we had the left leg twisted around the right and were trying to squat while holding our arms above our heads, she told us to pretend we were holding a croissant in our butts – and then she laughed and told us we would get it later. I still don’t get it and I am not sure I want to. 

And the commentary was not the end of the weirdness.  Take the playlist. For a yoga class, our instructor selected Pearl Jam, Train, Simon & Garfunkel, and Swell Season.  What about “she lies and says she still loves him” or “you have broken me all the way down” says inner-peace?  Also, are yoga classes supposed to have playlists?

Now consider the sneak attack massages the instructor gave out at the end of class.  As Drops of Jupiter faded, the lights went out and I was feeling relieved class was almost over. I closed my eyes and started looking forward to being able to laugh about this whole experience with Sarah on the way home.  Suddenly and without warning, my shoulders were being massaged and not gently.  Had this class been relaxing, the massage would have ruined it. Were I a normal person who enjoyed massages, this still would have made me feel uncomfortable (Just ask Sarah. She is normal and was equally uncomfortable.). I am not one to enjoy a massage by a stranger.  My feeling is that if you want to get that close at least buy me a drink first.  At a minimum please give me a warning or ask for my permission before putting your hands on me in the dark. Just a useful tip if the opportunity presents itself to any of you.

Lastly, let’s discuss the instructors closing words before she turned the lights on.  “Think happy thoughts and nice things about yourself because everyone out in the world is judging you.”  Really? Everyone out in the world is judging me? This never occurred to me. I always thought everyone was thinking about themselves or the presidential election or what to make for dinner.  Turns out the world is busy critiquing my choice to run and then do yoga three hours later without showering or changing my clothes. My mistake.

And after all that, I think I might go back next week.  My arms already look better.

~Rebecca

 

*Criteria for exercise:  1. No serious equipment or clothing required. 2. Can be done almost anywhere.

Crossed

After writing about (and reading about) so many dragon references from this week's Chinese New Year coverage, I realized just how much I really do have a "thing" for iconic imagery like the dragon. I have written about my love of snakes, and I especially gravitate toward crosses. Crosses are not part of the religion I was raised with, but I have always been so intrigued by them. To me, they have nothing to do with religion...instead, they represent a dark, moody, gothic style best represented by rock stars and Carine Roitfeld! They are very strong, historically important, usually ornate and beautiful, and have made appearances in my own wardrobe on everything from t-shirts to super sparkly necklaces. (I find it better suited to me personally when this image isn't taken too seriously...add in sequins or oversized rhinestones and the whole concept translates as so much more just "fashion-y"...)

So when I came across (no pun intended...) this t-shirt from Wildfox, with it's incredibly simple design, I somehow actually loved it. A strong, plain black cross on a stark white background, this is the absolute perfect canvas for some jewelry dripping in colored stones. The contrast would be amazing, yet the t-shirt would still stand out as an intergral part of the outfit. Add in either super skinny dark, dark blue jeans or faded-out flares, and you'll instantly create the cool-girl-in-the-room look. And that jewelry? Stack on the bracelets, layer necklaces, pile on a cocktail ring or chandelier earrings. You can dress this up, or keep it really bohemian casual. Either way, it won't make me cross...

~ Alison.

We All Need a Little (Dragon) Luck...

With the Chinese New Year celebration still going on, the Year of the Dragon is already shaping up to be a lucky one! And here at Stylewhipped we think you definitely need to bring some more dragon into your life. Danielle already gave you some gorgeous tips on how to throw an Asian-themed party, so I thought I would source some beautiful (and lucky...and very cool-looking...) accessories that use the "dragon" motif. Personally, along with snakes, dragons are one of my favorite images. They speak to my inner alter-ego who would be have way more than my two little tattoos, and as an iconic visual they feel edgy, empowering, and just masculine enough to balance my super girly-glam look.

Jewelry is definitely a go-to way to incorporate dragons into your existing look. Rather than sporting Da-Nang cargo pants with dragon embroidery (obviously we aren't all Rooney Mara...), why not try something a little more subtle but still noticeable and super fabulous? This bracelet from John Hardy is sterling silver with 18-kt gold accents. It looks phenomenal on its own, but could easily be stacked with other pieces (how about a rose gold watch and a super skinny pave diamond bracelet?). And the earrings from Noir?! They are too amazing for words (and much more affordable than the Hardy number...) with their rose gold and black crystals. I kind of want them right now...

        

And guys, I didn't forget about you (after all, these dragons are pretty tough characters!). Instead of going down the (very, very frightening) Ed Hardy route (please, just say no.), why not give your own accessory collection a little jolt of whimsy and edge with these dragon cufflinks from Tateossian! They are fun, cool, make an excellent gift, and will make you stand out among any crowd of guys in dress shirts!

And if you absolutely aren't ready to wear a dragon anywhere on your body, these stunning beach towels from Natori (available in the three saturated colors shown below) are the perfect way to still have the Year of the Dragon bring you some good luck! Imagine laying these out at the pool or by the ocean...everyone will know who's life is truly 100% styled...

Hmmm...from my point of view, I think maybe every year should be the Year of the Dragon...!

~ Alison.

Danielle Aspromatis: Everything's Coming up Rose Gold

In 2011, rose gold became huge in the accessories and apparel world (even our own editor-in-chief is constantly talking about - and writing about! - her love of rose gold). Watches, bracelets, necklaces and earrings in rose gold popped up all over as the must-have trend and even translated into some trims and details on furniture, home accessories and even nailpolish (Um, Dino/Santa please bring me the Michael Kors rose gold watch next year!).

I see this metal as only gaining momemtum in 2012 and beyond. Rose gold engagement rings and wedding bands are now increasing in popularity ...and even becoming an important pop of metallic color for wedding colors; It's amazing when paired with blush and ivory, adding a soft vintage feel to your day. If you are looking for another pop of color, a deep plum would go perfectly! There is just something about rose gold that exudes romance and rich timeless elegance.

Personally, I usually prefer silver, white gold or platinum...but I found these rings and even I fell in love with them!

From www.mdcdiamonds.com; LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!!!! 

 

From www.gemvara.com; Classic and beautiful, any woman would be lucky to own one of these timeless stones and settings...

 

  And this rose gold/platinum mix is currently on Ebay...stunning!

 

 

 

 

 

-Danielle

Joseph Ungoco: Gentlemen Make Way - For a More Stylish YOU!

Editor's Note: Please welcome Joseph Ungoco, Stylewhipped's Men's Director. Joseph brings with him many years of fashion industry and editorial experience, and will be the voice for all of our male readers to follow! Joseph will bring you his expert opinion on men's fashion, accessories and even grooming. To read Joseph's full bio, click here! ~ Alison.

----------------------------------------------

Setting aside those New Year’s resolutions to lose weight and be more stylish for a moment, let’s address the most pressing issue afflicting well dressed men – limited closet space.  Start off the New Year by clearing out your closet and making room for those stylish spring purchases you’re about - with my expert advice over the coming weeks - to start making. After all, deliveries of spring merchandise to retailers start next week. Those of us who follow the fashion calendar religiously have been in training since long before the holidays so as not to offend the mirror when we try on bathing suits in the dead of winter.

The easiest space maker is getting rid of things that you don’t wear. If you haven’t worn it in over a year, get rid of it. PERIOD!  Let go of those “it has to go to a good home” and “I’m going to fit into it” excuses. What - are you auditioning for the fashion edition of Hoarders: Buried Alive?  I use a three-tier system for disposing of old clothes. Basics go to local charities. Last season’s fashion items go to friends who live in second tier cities or relatives who live in third world countries where the fashion is a season or more behind. One-of-a-kind runway items are earmarked for museums. Come tax time, your accountant - and your bank account - will appreciate your charitable donations!

The dress shirt is the blank canvas upon which you paint a stylish portrait. Get rid of any shirts with stains that your cleaners haven’t been able to remove.  Try your shirts on and button the collar. If you can’t breathe – if you can put two fingers or more in the collar – if the cuffs fall above the bones in your wrists – get rid of it. If the placket doesn’t lie flat and gaps between buttons – either because you’ve overworked your chest at the gym or let your spare tire run wild – get rid of it. If you sport a 40 mm or larger watch and your cuff won’t close around it, see if your tailor - unless you got a merit badge for sewing in Boy Scouts - can move the button. If not – you guessed it – GET RID OF IT!!!

January is a great time to look at your sweater collection which, of course, you keep stored flat in drawers or boxes, folded perfectly as though an invisible GAP employee with a folding board lives in your closet like the cousin of the little man who lives in the refrigerator and turns the light on when you open it.  Inventory your fall and winter sweaters and send the fall ones off for cleaning and storage.  Go ahead and call in your spring sweaters so you know what you have before you start buying the newest spring styles.

Stains, rips and moth holes go to charity.  Dispose of any sweater whose waist rides above the waistband of your favorite jeans. Any sweater that features what fashion editors call “bracelet sleeves” has to go no matter if you’ve been building up your traps or your dry cleaner shrunk it. The whole point of a turtleneck is to feel snug and warm and to look sharp and stylish. Saggy t-necks are for sloppy dressers!  Try misting the neck and cuffs of your favorite sweaters and run them in the dryer to refresh the fit.   If that doesn’t work, it’s time for new ones. 

I keep a strict “one in/one out” rule over my closet. I haven’t bought a hanger in years!  Think of it as the more you give, the more you get to buy. If your closet looks a little empty after you apply my advice, fear not!  I have many suggestions on how to update your look and create a more stylish you in 2012 and I’ll be sharing them in the coming weeks.

-- Joseph

Sherin Botros: Thrill of the Chaise

Very few people fall in love with furniture, but I'm not afraid to confess I get very excited about it! And let it be known my first love was...the chaise lounge.

Yes, a little dramatic I know, but in my eyes, the chaise is the embodiment of luxury, glamour,and even a bit of exotic mystique.

I'm pretty certain somewhere in my Egyptian lineage I'm related to Cleopatra, which compels me to fulfill an aristocratic life....draped over my lounge chair, sipping a glass of champagne and listening to my own personal violinist play soothing music to ease the stresses of my high-society life. Ahhh, a girl can dream...Right?

Reality check: Life is hectic....crazy commutes, stressful jobs, unrealistic deadlines, over-scheduled kids, housework, homework, yard work, whatever your reality is, put it behind you. The chaise lounge makes the perfect way to remove yourself from the hectic outside world and indulge in a good book, take a nap, or unwind with a glass of wine (okay, maybe a bottle for some of you).  

The chaise (sometimes referred to as the 'fainting couch') is quite versatile and can be showcased in any room as a statement piece or an as an accent.  

I found this chic Maxine Chaise Lounge from raymourflanigan.com that would look exquisite if placed underneath a window, or by a fabulous piece of art, next to a floor lamp and a side table or even next to an over-sized floor mirror. 

Ornate, modern, or casual, these loungers come in a variety of materials and styles. They come with side arms or armless, a high back or backless, in leather or microsuede, and can be upholstered with your favorite fabrics. Whatever your unique style, this will be your personal little haven!

-Sherin

Fun Facts: 

- The chaise lounge was first created in ancient Egypt as a comfortable seat upon which only royalty reclined (so really, maybe I am related to Cleopatra?!). But it was really the French art and architecture of the 18th century Rococo period that brought the chaise lounge into the forefront of interior design and made it a focal piece for wealthy aristocrats and royalty.

- The chaise was sometimes called the "fainting couch" thanks to Victorian women of the 19th century who fainted frequently from their tight corsets. A well-appointed home or building would have a fainting couch at the top of every set of stairs for her use.