The Unexpected
Nod to Halloween October 28th, 2011 By

Halloween is quickly approaching, but for one reason or another I’m not in the dress-up mood this year. I will be costuming it up for work, but in my real life, I think I’m just going to present a nod to Halloween with a few of these booo-tiful (too much? I tried) accessories this weekend.

nod to halloween l-r: MAKE UP FOR EVER Fluo Night Black Light Pigment: $31.00, available at Sephora.com; POP Beauty Lashes – Icon False Lashes: $12.00, available at Beauty.com; Palladio BECHIC Lipstick Orange Burst: $2.29, available at Sally Beauty Supply; butter LONDON Black Nail Polish: $14.00, available at Zappos.com; butter LONDON Matte Finish Topcoat: $18.00, available at BeautyBar.

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Editor’s Picks: Kristina’s Spring Must-Haves February 19th, 2010 By

I’ve been awfully restless lately and it’s led me to one conclusion: I’ve developed a bad case of Spring Fever. I’m just itching to throw on some strappy sandals and a floral-inspired dress. Lucky for me, the weather here in sunny Los Angeles is already permitting for such attire! Here are a few items items I’m lusting after this spring.

editors_picks_spring

Kristina's Picks for Spring

1.  Piel Large Yellow Hobo
$210.40 (20% off)

2.  Linea Paolo ‘Jarren’ Sandal
$109.95

3.  Cardigans – shop a variety of styles and shades
Starting at $14.50

4.  Josie Maran Natural Wonders Powders Palette
$35

5.  Maggy London Border Print Party Dress
$138

6.  DV by Dolce Vita ‘Cairo’ Flat
$76.95

7.  Hot Pink Nail Polish by OPI
Starting at $4

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Top 5: What’s Haute for Spring January 28th, 2010 By

- Ehmonie from Handbag du Jour

Last spring was all about leggings, jeggins, strong shoulders and studded everything.  Balmain was one designer that ruled the spring runways with edgy, distressed, punk looks and many others followed suit.  Wondering what’s haute for this spring?  Well, this year’s trends are a blend of feminine and masculine.  Expect to see much softer looks, with a much more understated bit of edge.  We’ve compiled a list of the top five items that are an absolute must-have for your spring wardrobe:

 

Love Quotes Scarf

Love Quotes Scarf

1. Scarves
A gauzy scarf is the perfect alternative to jewelry, and it does double-duty by keeping you warm.  Infinity scarves ruled the winter; now pick up a gauze scarf for spring.  Solid colors are great, but a print takes your look up a couple of notches.  Wear it hanging long, or slouchily wrapped around your neck for a boho look.  Wondering what print to pick?  Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be a perfect match with the rest of your wardrobe.

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Comic Strip Tights

2. Printed Tights
Leggings are still spilling over from last year, but this year’s choice of legwear is printed tights.  Worn with skirts and dresses, these tights are like artwork for your legs.  Choose from floral prints and stripes, to newsprint, pop art and color blocks.  Mix print tights with contrasting print dresses and skirts to take a fashion risk that will definitely pay off.

 

Combat Boots

Combat Boots

3. Combat Boots
Yes, the Dr. Martens-style combat boot is making a huge comeback.  But this time, it’s much more ladylike.  The new wave of combat boots boast interesting details like buckled shafts, stud details, and even chunky heels while maintaining feminine sensibilities.  Choose from basic black to lighter colors to usher in the springtime.

 

Statement Bags

Statement Bags

4. Statement Bags
One thing that never goes out of style is the statement back.  This spring, tear yourself away from black and buy a bag full of color.  A vibrant pop of color injects your look with personality and pizzazz.  And a bright leather satchel is just the bag to take you easily from work to play.

 

 

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Nail Polish


5. Nail Polish
Last spring, Chanel ushered in green nail polish and fashionistas took notice.  This year, the colorful nail polish trend continues.  While fall was all about deep purples and vampy reds, spring is the time to shine your nails with light pastels and fun, funky bright colors.  Metallic nails are big — glitter your hands up with some silver or gold.  Also new to the scene, matte polishes in beiges and taupes.

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Editor’s Picks: What I Can’t Live Without Right Now January 25th, 2010 By

Here are my top picks for products I can’t live without these days:

Mara's Top Picks, 1. MARC by Marc Jacobs, 2. Hanky Panky, 3. Lola, 4. Revlon Sheer Pink, 5. Kiehl's Conditioner, 6. Ray-Ban Aviators, 7. Votivo Candles, 8. M.A.C. Lipglass

Mara's Top Picks: 1. MARC by Marc Jacobs, 2. Hanky Panky, 3. Lola, 4. Revlon Sheer Pink, 5. Kiehl's Conditioner, 6. Ray-Ban Aviators, 7. Votivo Candles, 8. M.A.C. Lipglass

When thinking about this week’s post, I turned to my own current must-haves for inspiration.  Here’s what I’m loving right now:

1. MARC by Marc Jacobs Petal to the Metal Benny Satchel
$398
“The grape color is fresh and flirty for spring, and I can’t get enough of the dove motif on his latest collection!  Plus, it has plenty of pockets that keep me organized when I’m on the go.”

2. Hanky Panky Low Rise Thong
$18
“The only underwear I buy these days — I must own a pair in every color.  They’re so soft and comfortable, and they never show through my clothing.”

3. Marc Jacobs Lola Eau de Parfum, 3.4 oz.
$85
“One of the best-selling perfumes in the country right now, Lola has hints of fuscia peony, geranium, and ruby red grapefruit.” 

4. Revlon Sheer Pink Enamel
$4.79
“When I don’t have time for a manicure, Revlon’s Sheer Pink polish saves the day.  The smooth formula glides on evenly, and it’s sheer enough so that mistakes don’t show.  Just one coat makes my nails look pretty and even.”

5. Kiehl’s Extra Strength Conditioning Rinse
$21-$33
“I use this conditioning rinse in lieu of my daily conditioner once a week to soften and add shine to my long (somewhat damaged and dry) hair.  Added bonus: the delicious coconut smell!”

6. Ray-Ban Aviators
from $72
“Even on my worst days, the aviator style makes me feel tough and sexy.  I love how Ray-Ban is now offering different lens and frame shades.  My favorite, the classic large style with gold frame and black lenses.”

7. Votivo Candle — Red Current
$25
“Perhaps my favorite candle, it’s clean-burning with a delicious scent that appropriate year-round and not too girly.  Makes an excellent hostess gift!”

8. M.A.C. Cosmetics Clear Lipglass
$14
“The shiniest gloss I’ve ever tried.  This unique formula really does leave a glass-like finish that lasts for hours.  I love it alone or over my favorite lipstick.”

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How to Accessorize the White Dress Shirt January 22nd, 2010 By

What's new 01.21

A crisp, white, French cuff shirt is the perfect blank canvas to accessorize with subtle details that show off your impeccable sense of style.  New at beso this week is an exquisitely tailored, Ralph Lauren French cuff shirt, embroidered with a subtle monogram on the chest.  French cuff shirts often come with cuff links, but I love to substitute the standard button or knot cuff link with something unconventional such as these matte silver owl cuff links.  Another way to bring a soft touch of eclectic femininity to the look is to wear an unique art piece like this handmade Alice in Wonderland pendant on a ribbon necktie.

Looking for something a bit more bold and chic?  Pump up the glam with a bright red clutch or some high gloss nail polish.  The Alexander McQueen quilted leather clutch shown here is a perfect little carrying pouch for your cell phone, keys, some cash and lipgloss.  The multi-glitter black lacquer of OPI Mad as a Hatter Nail Polish brings some attention to the hands and some rocker edge to your classic white dress shirt.

Shop these items featured here and more of What’s New at beso !

  1. White French Cuff  Shirt  by Ralph Lauren,  $59
  2. Red Clutch by Alexander McQueen ,  $899
  3. Matte Silver Owl  Cuff Links , $49.95
  4. OPI Nail Lacquer in Mad as a Hatter, $4.25
  5. Handmade Tile Pendant featuring  Alice in Wonderland,  $10
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Nail it! September 18th, 2009 By

SpaRitual in Shrewd

SpaRitual in Shrewd, $10

Remember the old Breyers Ice Cream commercials, where the voice of God asks a sweet little person to read the ingredients on their frozen treat?  The results were mildly disturbing.  Well let me tell ya, polysorbate 80 ain’t got nothing on the stuff they put in nail polish.

Would you like a delicious double-scoop of toluene, formaldyhyde, acetone or phthalates?  No?  Then do yourself a solid and switch your nail tints to something less toxic.  These days it isn’t hard to find fabulous paints without the poison.  And many healthy hotties even bring their own stuff to the nail salon to ensure the most sanitary mani-pedi possible.

For starters, check out the beautiful choices from SpaRitual.  These vegan nail lacquers are free of DBP, formaldehyde and toluene.  They’ve got a great selection that spans the traditional color spectrum.  They also glide on like a dream and have great staying power.  My favorites are Shrewd, Foxy Lady and Smart Cookie.

PeaceKeeper Nail Paints do not engage in animal testing and are toluene, formaldyhyde, acetone and phthalate-free.  While their color palate is still a little lacking on a grand scale, they are a great choice if you tend to gravitate toward softer, more traditional and muted colors.  I’m a big fan of the Tranquil and Grateful colors.

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