Jean Dress in the Woods

Dress: vintage LL Bean; Scarf: Burberry; Boots: J Crew; Purse: Louis Vuitton

Sometimes even on the weekend a dress is the first thing I grab.  With the re-emergence of 90's style, denim dresses have become relevant again.  To keep my outfit from resembling my Pre-K teacher, I tried to balance things out with a pop of color coat, a great scarf, and a chunky boot.   

Laura x

Tweed Coat and Leather Baseball Hat

Hat: Target; Sunglasses: Ray Ban; Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs; Dress: vintage DKNY; Wool coat: Vintage; Boots: J Crew; Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs

People are either "hat people" or not.  I have always love hats.  There is something about a hat that allows you to get out of character and channel energy that you might not normally have.  Leather baseball hats have been all over the runways and magazines this fall.  This olive green version is a good neutral color for me for fall and solves any bad hair day. 

Laura x

Hudson and Barbour Barn Jacket

Barn jacket: Barbour; T-shirt: Topshop; Necklace: Vintage; Jeans: customized American Eagle; Boots: Frye

I have a lot of jackets and coats, but I am always drawn to look at new ones because they can take a simple outfit and make it feel more put together.  This outfit consisted of black jeans I ripped/distressed myself and flowing t-shirt and boots.  A bright red barn jacket and a statement necklace made me feel more pulled together. 

Laura x

How To: Spray Paint Pumpkins

Pumpkins are a uniquely American way to decorate for fall.  I like pumpkins, but carving a pumpkin is a messy job and they usually don't last longer than a few weeks.  Driving with my Mom this weekend, we passed a lot of road-stands selling pumpkins for as little as $3-5.  I had the idea to spray paint some pumpkins to be more my style.  Here is my how-to:

Supplies: 
                                     Pumpkin(s)                 Painters tape: 1"                 Spray paint

1. Apply the painter's tape to your pumpkins in the desired pattern.  Some pumpkins are rounder and suited to vertical stripes, while others work better with horizontal stripes.  Play around to see what works best. 

2. Cover the stem with a small plastic bag to keep the look more "natural."

3. Spray away!

4. Remove the tape after 2-3 minutes. 

Tip: You could also use stencils to mark your pumpkin with your house number, initials, etc.

Laura x

Leopard Sweatshirt and Silver Flats

Sunglasses: Ray Ban; Necklace and Chambray shirt: J Crew; Sweatshirt: All Saints Spitafields; Jeans: American Eagle; Flats: Zara; Bangle: Kate Spade; Watch: Marc by Marc Jacobs; Purse: Christian Dior

I am always drawn to a grey sweatshirt.  This muted leopard-print version is one of my favorites.  I am still learning that it is better to buy what I really love rather than lots of things that I "like."  This sweatshirt was more than I would usually spend, but in costs-per-wear is worth it. 

Also shown are a vintage Christian Dior bag and new Zara metallic loafers. 

Laura x

5 Make-Up Game Changers

I was recently a bridesmaid in my good friend's wedding.  One of the funnest parts was getting ready together and comparing what make-up used.  I got some great ideas of new products to try.  Here are 5 of my favorite make-up discoveries.  

 1. Nars Pure Matte Lipstick: This lipstick stays on all day long without being excessively dry.  The colors are vibrant and range from classic to on trend.  My favorites are (in order): Carthage, Mascate, Volga, and Vesuvio. 

2. Maybelline Baby Lips: Very creepy name, very cool product.  These chapstick-like lipsticks have been getting tons of buzz in fashion and beauty magazines.  They are like adult Lipsmackers....conditioning vaseline with a subtle pop of flavor and color.  A quick and easy $5 pick-me-up.  

3. Chanel Poudre Universelle Libre: This loose powder finishes any look.  It is also a great eyeshadow base.  Plus, it is a beautiful addition to any bathroom counter.  I wear number 30, naturale. 

4. Lancome mascara: Hands-down the best mascara I have found.  I like Hypnose Star and Definicils.  Both seem to lengthen and separate my eyelashes better than anything else I have tried.  The only downside is they seem to dry out quickly.  I keep the brushes and use them with less expensive mascaras. 

5. Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat and NARS Smudge Proof eyeshadow base: it is claimed that Touche Eclat is the world's #1 selling beauty product and I believe it.  It is a highlighter pen which can also be used as a concealer.  I like using it under my eyebrows after I put on my shadow.  The NARS eyeshadow base is a new favorite.  It really seems to keep my eyeshadow in place. 

Make-up can be such an escapist part of the day.  What's your favorite beauty find?

Laura x