The City Girl in Me

Thank You.

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 09:48:02 -0400

This has been a long time coming, since my posts have been all-but regular in the...

The Modern Cat Eye. Hello City Girls! There are occasions that...

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 09:13:55 -0500

The Modern Cat Eye.

Hello City Girls! There are occasions that call for a cat eye, some of which are a casual Tuesday morning. My lovely model Ally stopped by with her new Eyeko duo wanting a lesson in application. She, like many of us, loves the look of a defined lash line, but had bad luck with other products that did not make it past 2pm without flaking off. I’ve been a loyal customer of Eyeko after hearing that it was the cornerstone of Adele’s signature look, and recommended she buy it.

The keys to modernize this retro look: dewy skin, flushed cheeks, and a pink pout.

Ally’s skin has been extremely dry due to the low temperatures we’ve been having in New York. I used Bobbi Brown’s Tinted Moisturizing Balm on a Real Techniques stippling brush, and buffed it all over her face in a circular motion. Next, I concealed the darkness under her eyes with my all time favorite Bobbi Brown corrector and concealer (she calls it the secret of the universe). I primed her lid with The Balm Put a Lid on It, and dusted a pale pink shimmer shadow up to the crease. To define her lid, I put a golden brown shade into her crease and blended it with a clean brush until it resembled a shadow.

To start the Eyeko liner, I held it like a pencil with the tip pointed toward her ears. I worked it backwards in a downward slant over the lash line so that it was thicker at the outer corners and thinner as it moved toward the nose. **Expert tip: with the ring finger, lift the lid up the tiniest bit while the eye is closed to ensure the liner hits the lashes. If not, it could look like it’s floating on the eye** After both eyes were finished, I swiped on 2 coats of the Eyeko skinny mascara which thickened and defined her lashes. I mean, look at those!

To finish the look, I took the same stippling brush with Nyx Rouge cream blush in Hot Pink over her cheekbones. I dabbed a little bit more cream blush on a lip brush and patted it over her lips. What do you guys think? Do you dare to create a cat eye for day?

Shoes. With Fashion Week just around the corner, I have been...

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 09:20:58 -0500

Shoes.

With Fashion Week just around the corner, I have been musing over ideas for outfits to wear to the shows. An updated pair of shoes has the power elevate every day basics. Did you know these pairs are all from Free People? They really have something for everyone’s taste. While these are a bit over my budget, I’m entertaining the idea of the investment because every pair is leather—- and we all know that makes for a long-lasting shoe. Anyone else having to restrain themselves from these beauties?

Makeup Inspiration: Keira Knightley After coming across this...

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 09:50:16 -0500

Makeup Inspiration: Keira Knightley

After coming across this photo on Pinterest, I’ve been revisiting it to examine which products I could use to recreate this feminine look she wore to the LA Film Fest ival.

Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturizing foundation in Alabaster — This liquid foundation is a medium coverage with hydrating properties that soothe normal to dry skin in these winter months. It looks and feels like skin, while giving a even finish.

Make Up Forever powder blush in Cotton Candy 88 — A matte baby pink blush gives just the slightest flush of warmth to the cheeks. When the eyes and lips are more dramatic, a toned down blush keeps everything in balance. In an upward sweeping motion, dab this on the apples of the cheeks.

Chanel Les 4 Ombres eyeshadow quad in 14 Mystic Eyes — These four hues compliment her dark brown eyes, but would look great with any eye color. I would start by sweeping the the lightest brown over the lid and lightly smudge it under the lower lash line. In a V shape, I would blend the darkest brown along the upper lash line and into the crease. On a different brush, I would apply the silver to the inner corners of the eyes in this > < shape to widen and brighten. Next, I would blend the tiniest amount of the light pink along the top of the crease to add warmth.

Dior Diorshow Extase mascara — Big, fluttery lashes are the key to this look. This mascara coats every lash in inky black. I would apply two to three coats of mascara to the top lashes, and one coat to the bottom lashes.

Anastasia Brow Gel in Clear — To recreate these neat and shapely brows, I would apply a few swipes of a clear gel to set them in place.

L’Oreal Colour Riche balm in Plush Plum — This mauve rose balm gives the lips the perfect amount of color and hydration. The key here is that they don’t look overly glossy or overly matte, just youthful and feminine.

2013 Resolutions

Wed, 09 Jan 2013 11:57:00 -0500

What’s better than a chance to restart, prioritize, and cleanse your life of...

New Year, New Favorites. Hello City Girls! It’s been a...

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 17:40:14 -0500

New Year, New Favorites.

Hello City Girls! It’s been a while, hasn’t it? It’s time for some new, fresh content and I wanted to share with you my latest favorites for beauty, style, and home.

For my beauty cabinet:

First Aid Beauty face cleanser — For the first time ever, my sensitive/ oily skin has been really really dry. This creamy cleanser takes off all of my makeup, eyes included, without leaving my skin feeling tight afterward or causing breakouts. It’s a bit of a splurge at $18, but the tiniest pea size amount cleans my entire face (HD foundation too!).

Boscia Luminizing Black Mask — After a long week at work, my skin was looking tired under the unsightly lights of the office bathroom. I decided my skin needed a pick-me-up in a major way. This mask is totally black — something my husband is still getting used to — and when it is fully dried, you make a few funny faces, and you can begin to peel it off. It removed the layer of dead skin cells without drying my face. I will warn you, it feels a little like pulling a BandAid off, but after one try you’ll see why I keep going back for more.

Fresh Sugar Rose lip butter — They call it butter for a reason. This gorgeous petal tint is creamy, hydrating, and perfect for every day. Amazing.

For my home:

Anthropologie small plates — I’ve been in an endless circle of using too-big plates for breakfast, which results in a full sink before dinner even starts. These plates are the perfect size for small meals, cookies, pie, and I love the splash of color in the kitchen.

Design Sponge by Grace Bonney — Everyone gets a little sick of looking at the same things in their home day in and day out. This book is a huge source of inspiration, ideas, and attainable DIYs. Santa always knows what I want!

For my closet:

Nine West Sosie booties — Finally! I’ve found the booties of my dreams. I wear these with everything— from tucked-in jeans, to maxi dresses, to pencil skirts. They are the perfect balance of buttery leather, comfort, and classic style.

Caravelle by Bulova rosegold watch — The lovely team at Bulova sent me this absolutely gorgeous watch back in September, just in time for my birthday. I finally got the links adjusted to fit me and I haven’t taken it off. This watch is perfect for every day, but looks sophisticated enough to wear to the office.

Calling all City Girls! LeSportsac loves us.

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 11:00:31 -0500

All of the time in the past few weeks that I have not been posting, due to my responsibilities...

Wise Words Wednesdays. 3 ways to be successful. (Source)

Wed, 07 Nov 2012 21:43:00 -0500

Wise Words Wednesdays. 3 ways to be successful.

(Source)

Fall Outfit Inspiration. Some days, we need a little...

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 13:03:00 -0500

Photo source: http://www.elle.com/fashion/street-chic/belle-epoque-652164#slide-1

Photo source: http://lovelyritablog.com/2012/04/25/black-leopard/

Photo source: http://www.lhj.com/blogs/ladieslounge/tag/stana-katic/

Photo source: http://www.fashionsalade.com/lovelypepa/

Fall Outfit Inspiration.

Some days, we need a little inspiration to help us extract an outfit from our closet that looks polished, without trying too hard. Here are some ideas that look easy enough to recreate with any variation on the items included in the look.

Shop Look 1:

Shop Look 2:

Shop Look 3:

Shop Look 4:

Fashionable Films— A Series. As you all know, I find...

Fri, 02 Nov 2012 12:32:00 -0400

Fashionable Films— A Series.

As you all know, I find inspiration from films all the time. I fall in love with a character, a scene, a mood, and I translate it into what I have in my closet or what I’m looking for on my next shopping adventure. Here is the beginning of another month-long series of Fashionable Films. This week, I give you Midnight in Paris.

Rachel McAdams plays Inez, an unequivocally driven, somewhat bossy fiancee of Owen Wilson’s character, Gil— who is quite the opposite. What I loved about this film were the juxtapositions of modern day simplicity worn by Inez and her friends, compared with the beaded, bedazzled gowns of The Golden Age girls you see after Midnight when Gil ventures out into the City of Light.

I think the costume designers portrayed the “uniform” of an American traveling in Europe quite well— simple t-shirts, jeans, belted dresses, signature sunglasses, and a great throw-over-everything jacket. Most often, we look and feel our best when we are wearing clothes that fit well, require little effort to put on, and remain inelaborate and modest. I’ve returned to this strategy of American simplicity, and I must say, I’ve had many more “I really like my outfit” days.

(Quote & photos from IMDB.)

3 Last Minute Halloween Costume Ideas. Let’s face it, with...

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 18:01:00 -0400

3 Last Minute Halloween Costume Ideas.

Let’s face it, with the craziness that ensues on Halloween, sometimes it’s more practical to pull some things out of your closet to create your costume. Here are 3 ideas if you’re still trying to figure out what to wear.

1. Beatnik poet: black beret, black turtle neck, black skinny jeans, black loafer flats. Grab a faux cigarette and a collection of Ginsberg poems, and you are good to go.

2. Where’s Waldo: blue pom pom beanie, red and white striped shirt, jeans, red sneakers. Try and blend in.

3. Top Chef: Make a DIY paper toque, a white shirt with pockets, black and white checked pants, red clogs. Walk around shouting commands, you’re allowed.

Hurricane Sandy

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 10:33:22 -0400

Because of all the power outages, I am unable to post as usual this week! Thankfully, everyone I...

How to cover a blemish

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 10:53:32 -0400

There is an artful, yet simple technique to covering blemishes, but it seems there are few...

Wise Words Wednesdays. You can always mix up accessories to...

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 09:26:49 -0400

Wise Words Wednesdays. You can always mix up accessories to reflect the latest trends, but take a cue from Armani, and buy classic pieces that last.

Deodorant Talk. City Girls know that when you’re racing...

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 09:00:52 -0400

Deodorant Talk.

City Girls know that when you’re racing from one part of your day to another, you need a deodorant that is reliable. In light of Breast Cancer Awareness month, a lot of deliberation, and reading this and this, I’ve been on the hunt for a deodorant without antiperspirant or aluminum that works.

I’ve been loving this & my mom is addicted to this. Have you had success with any other products?

One Blazer, 4 Ways. A well-fitting blazer could be one of the...

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 09:23:44 -0400

One Blazer, 4 Ways.

A well-fitting blazer could be one of the most important things a woman should own (and in case you’re wondering why, watch this). Whether you need office-wear, something to polish off a casual weekend outfit, or a light jacket for date night, a blazer is the most reliable, versatile piece in a closet.

Work: Chevron sequin top, black pencil skirt, cognac document holder, purple heels.

Weekend: Fisherman cableknit sweater, dark wash boyfriend jeans, snakeskin satchel, black smoking slippers.

Date: Silky two-tone blouse, black quilted skirt, gold statement necklace, black pantent ankle-strap heels.

Lunch: Gray peplum tank, cobalt matchstick jeans, oversized beaded clutch, red velvet bow flats.

Here are some more blazer options to check out—

Wise Words Wednesdays. Let’s make a pact: to speak the...

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 09:18:12 -0400

Wise Words Wednesdays. Let’s make a pact: to speak the truth always, even when it’s not easy.

The 4 product face for less than $40. Ally is back on The City...

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 11:17:28 -0400

The 4 product face for less than $40.

Ally is back on The City Girl in Me to show us how absolutely stunning it is to wear the most minimal makeup— which is perfect for those days we have less than 5 minutes to get all dolled up. The red lip is every City Girl’s secret weapon!

1. mark. Got the Goods Multibenefit Foundation [$18] With a foundation brush, I applied this all over her skin starting from the middle of her face and blending outward. It gave her a sheer coverage with a dewy finish — perfect for someone with generally clear, dry skin.
2. Avon Ideal Luminous blush in Earthen Rose [on sale for $6] Along her cheekbones and temples, I dusted this blush where the sun would naturally hit her face for a warm glow.
3. Avon Big Color Glossy lip pencil in Glossy Celestial [$7] A bright red lip with blue undertones looks gorgeous on nearly everyone. A red lip is a great way to look like you made an effort with your makeup, when it really took 30 seconds or less to apply. I applied this straight from the applicator, outlining the lips first, then filling in for a full coverage.
4. Avon Superdrama Mascara in Black [on sale for $6] I kept the eyes super clean with a few swipes of mascara to define the lash line without taking away from the simplicity of this look.

Disclosure: Avon provided me with editorial samples, without any obligation. All opinions expressed are my own.

New [to me] Beauty Favorites. NARS Velvet Gloss lip pencil in...

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 10:35:00 -0400

New [to me] Beauty Favorites.

NARS Velvet Gloss lip pencil in New Lover— True story: last week I was running late to an event in Times Square and I was literally applying this while crossing the street and dodging tourists (I know). I didn’t get to see the finished result until a few hours later, and I was pleasantly surprised by its the sheer rosy glow that survived a no-mirror-application and cocktails!

Urban Decay Naked Skin foundation— I’ve been faithfully using HD foundation for a few years now, but after reading so many glowing reviews I had to try this. The lovely ladies at Sephora gave me a tester to see how it worked with my skin, and after one week I was back to buy the bottle. The silky formula allows your skin to look like skin, with a less drying finish. The coverage is sheer, but it builds easily to cover blemishes or dark spots. I found that I like the look of the foundation better when applied with a foundation brush.

Avon Ideal Luminous Blush in Earthen Rose— Some days, pink blush is just not the look I want, but my skin still needs some healthy warmth. This amazing blush gives skin that glow reminiscent of summer, without sparkles or sheen. Anyone with a fair to medium skin tone, looking for a matte bronzer— look no futher! Plus, you really can’t beat this price tag of $8.

OCC Lip Tar in Strumpet— I have been hunting everywhere for these lip tars and finally Sephora carries them in-store and online. They are rich pigments (vegan + cruelty free) that require the tiniest drop to cover the lips in matte, fast-drying color. Word to the wise— you’ll need a mirror and lip brush to apply it.

L’Oreal Voluminous mascara in Carbon Black— I’m not a faithful to any one mascara, so I am constantly trying out new ones to find the be-all-end-all that’s under $9. This super-black formula glides in with the thick brush to coat and curl my otherwise stubbornly straight lashes. Best part? It didn’t flake or leave my lashes feeling like they were sprayed with Elnett, instead they were super soft and fluttery.

What are your new favorites for Fall?

Disclosure: Avon sent me an editorial sample, free of obligation. All opinions expressed are my own.

How to choose the right foundation shade

Sat, 06 Oct 2012 12:05:59 -0400

Many of us have struggled with how to choose the right shade of concealer, foundation, or...