I'm Wearing Five Mascaras Today!

I've recently just been obsessed with making my eyelashes look as amazing as possible sans wearing faux lashes. (Messy glue is not my thing and I simply suck at applying them). A while back, I tried using a lash/eyebrow brush in between coats of mascara. But I couldn't ever apply more than two coats; the brush just didn't get in there to remove enough. It still looked great--but I wanted more.

So I thought back to a de-clumping tip I've been hearing for years about wiping your mascara wand with a tissue before applying. That sounded like a huge waste of mascara to me, so I opted out.

Now I've finally figured it out. Spoolies!!! They're disposable mascara wands (though I clean them with my brush cleaner to get a few extra uses out of each one) The best thing about them is that they're super cheap (under $5 for 50).

Running one of these wands through my lashes post mascara application gets every single clump out, and makes my lashes look naturally full; no spider lashes for me! I played around with this idea and I'm now at the point where I can apply about five coats of mascara, with a swipe of a spoolie between each coat, and end up with lashes that look natural, long and lusciously thick.

Each mascara "layer" builds up your lashes a bit. So when you're applying mascara over post mascara-ed lashes, the mascara treats your lashes as as if they were your clean normal eye fringe. This buildup makes them look super thick and adds definite length.

I've been using multiple types of mascara and mixing it up between coats. It's good to use tubes that are formulated for different things: lengthening, thickening, curling, etc. Try it with whatever mascaras you already have (of course I own about 545743897--most normal peeps have around three). But play around with different combos. The results will surprise you!

Something Sticky

I'm pretty excited about these. Pocksie Temporary Sticky Pockets are a divine idea and I can't believe that it hasn't been thought of before.

Basically, the sticky pockets are about the size of a post-it, with an added pocket, and a lot more adhesive (though not so much that it's difficult to remove). They can stick anywhere--I suggest somewhere that won't end up showing through your outfit and look like it's a tag you've left on.

How great it is?! Much as I love my handbags, I hate dragging them out with me when I go out at night and worrying about whether or not I'll lose it. Clutches are good, but can you really hold onto a clutch all night? Even the greatest clutches can be annoying to bring on the dance floor.

The best part is that the pocksie itself is actually made of cotton, not paper or another material that would feel irritating against your skin. Each one has about enough room for your ID, credit card, a little cash.

You can get yourself a pack of six for about $10.

Now Everyone Can Wear Hello Kitty!

You guys probably know from my 543857934 posts about Hello Kitty that I'm a tiny bit obsessed with her. So I frequently browse online for new products sporting her cute little face. Sometimes I find things that are a little bit "out of my league".

Like this Hello Kitty Burqa. While wearing this, your face actually peeks out from behind a netted cutout of Hello Kitty's face. And the rest of the garment is adorned with little appliques with her likeness.

It's kind of cute, but a little creepy and extreme! I do, however, like the fact that no matter where you live in the world, you can still openly show your love for Hello Kitty and wear her clothing with pride. In fact, this is the only company I know that creates clothing for almost everyone in the world. In all honesty, Hello Kitty just might be the answer to all the world's problems and bring us all closer together. Or something.

I think I'll stick to my Hello Kitty pajamas.

[image from Hello Kitty Hell]

Feel Like Stabbing Your Ex?

Sounds a little extreme, but we've all been there. I know I've had my share of bad breakups and have definitely had brief impulses to impale the man who broke my heart.

Well, now there's a healthy way to do it sans actually killing someone. Owning the Ex 5-Piece Stainless-Steel Knife Set is the perfect way to let out your aggression; just picture your ex and stab a knife into this adorable little knife holder. Simple as pie (which you can cut with one of the knives you've just used for stabbing).

The set also comes with five stainless steel knives, so it is actually a legitimate home accessory that can be used for something, not simply a tool for rage (well, not completely).

You can pick up one of these guys for $70.

Fine-Tune Your Memory with Some Style

When I was a kid, I played Memory.  A lot.  And I was pretty damn good at it.  I used to beg my parents to play it with me constantly.

Now that I've grown up a bit, it's high time to find a grown-up version of the game I cherished.  Street Style Memory Game fits the bill.

It's not only a great way to sharpen your mind, the game also contains oodles of fashionable peeps to match up.

Unfortunately, the game isn't available yet.  The site simply says "available soon", but there is a mailing list to alert you when it's out. 

Pretty Polish: OPI's Alice in Wonderland collection

Nothing tickles my fancy more than a new nail polish collection.  OPI's newest Spring 2010 Alice in Wonderland collection is simply divine.  Maybe I'm biased because I loved the story when I was younger--I would literally prance around in an "Alice in Wonderland-esque" dress and pretend to be her.  But back to the polish--the colors are really gorgey.

 Here's the rundown:

Thanks so Muchness- This is a cool-toned red with a little shimmer to it.  I'd say it's a tid bit darker than the picture.  It looks almost like a low-key blood-red shade.  It's a great red for gals who have been too scared to try red in the past! The color is a great "starter" red that isn't too vampy.

Absolutely Alice- My fave color in the collection.  It's pure shimmer; mainly blue with some silver and gold specks thrown in. The glitter is a bit chunkier than in the picture, but is still easy to apply.  The outcome is fairly sheer, even after two coats, so it makes a great top coat. I suppose if you're more patient than I am, you could get a more opaque look with a few more coats.

 Mad as a Hatter- The picture doesn't do this polish justice. As with Absolutely Alice, the glitter is a little larger, and the overall tone is very sheer.  What makes this hue interesting, is the number of colors included.  From what I can see, the glitter is a mixture of purple, silver, green, gold, blue, red and orange.  Purple is the most prominent.  Wearing this polish is basically like having a party on your nails!

Off with her Red- This is a very different red than Thanks so Muchness. It's orange-based and very creamy with no shimmer at all.  I'd say that the orange almost dominates the shade.  While it is undeniably a red, when applied there is a definite orange tone.  The polish applies like a dream, more so than the others in the collection.  After one coat, I felt like I could have slapped on a topcoat and called it a day.


You can pick up the fabulous polishes here for $9.95 a bottle (there's a 10% discount if you buy all four!)

Keep Shoes Organized with the Shoe Wheel!

Yes, this actually exists. And yes, it comes in pink (fine, it also comes in silver, black and white for you pink-haters).  I was so incredibly happy when I stumbled upon this delightful storage device that I ran and told my boyfriend about it and jumped up and down. Obviously, he was not as impressed.

Currently, my shoes live in a HUGE pile under my bed.  I have a long, flat tupperware under there too, but somehow the shoes never make it there as I tend to just kick them off and fling them under the bed.

Anyway, Rakku has created this amazing Shoe Wheel that will change my life (once I can afford it, they're $65). Each wheel holds about 30 pairs of shoes; if you've got the cash, buy a few!  They easily fit into closets, or you can leave them out.  Personally, I think they have a ferris-wheel-with-shoes-riding-on-it look, which in all honestly could be the focal point of any room.

Fabulous, no?

Beauty Babble: Q & A sesh with Tippi Shorter

All this winter weather is wreaking havoc on my hair. It's dry, frizzy and just plain disgusting. So I've been searching high and low for some tips on how to make my hair look decent enough to go out in public without a huge hat. And I think I've found just the person to help me!

Tippi Shorter is nothing short (pardon the pun) of a hair guru. She's been a spokesperson for Pantene and Clairol, she's working on her own hair extension line Get Gorgeous Hair and is working as the newest addition to the Avon hair styling team.

She works with oodles of celebs and really knows her stuff! I had the chance to ask her a few questions and get some much-needed hair help.

Sassy Fashionista: If you could only use one hair product for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Tippi Shorter: I’ve tried and tested many amazing products, but the one product I can’t live without is my Mason Pearson brush.

SF: What's the best way to define curls without them looking "crunchy" and being basically untouchable?

TS: Creating touchable curls is all about the product.  Use a curl-enhancing product to hold and control a curl’s shape for up to 24 hours!

SF: What beauty products/tools can you not live without?

TS: My must-have hair products are:

Serum - Advance Techniques Anti-Frizz Capsules

Deep Conditioner - Ojon Restorative Treatment

Pomade - Bedhead Stick

Hairspray - Pantene Ice Shine

In terms of tools, I cannot live without… a great blowdryer and 1-inch flat iron that can be used to straighten or curl.

SF: Last season, we saw a lot of rather extravagant hair accessories with feathers, bows and rhinestones galore.  What will this season bring, in terms of hair decoration?

TS: I hope this season brings many more hair decorations!  I love working with hair accessories, especially extensions. Hair extensions allow me to create any style. I also love using a clip-on pony, faux bangs or stylish headbands for a fresh new look.

Last Day to Enter the D&Y's Leopard Scarf GIVEAWAY!!!

Just a reminder that today is the last day to enter the giveaway for the D&Y Large Leopard viscose scarves! I've got three to give away, and honestly they're the most gorgey scarves I've ever feasted my eyes on. 

Here's how to enter:  email me at SassyAlana@gmail.com with the subject "LEOPARD SCARF".  In one week (1/31), I'll pick the winners and alert them via email.

To read the original post, click here. 

Disclosure:  This review contains a sample product sent for consideration by a PR firm. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me. 

Fashion Faux Pas: Shoulder Jewelry

I'm troubled that something like this even exists.  Babette Epaulette has a whole line of jewelry specifically made to wear over your shoulder. Like a continental soldier. (I've had that song stuck in my head since I saw this).

Ummm...what?! I don't think we're running low on places to wear baubles. I can appreciate the concept and the originality, but come on.  Shoulder jewelry?

I just think it's weird. And I'm all for weird, so if I think that this is past the point of weird-chic, then it must be pretty ridiculous.

Plus, just think about it:  with all those doodads hanging from your shoulder, there'd be tangles galore!  There's simply no way that the fringe and chains wouldn't want to mingle, and then you'd be left with a huge tangled mess on your shoulder. Very trendy.

Oh and did I mention that they sell for about $150 each?

Fashion Babble: Q & A sesh with Molly Sims

At the beginning of the week, I basically professed my love for Molly Sims new jewelry line, Grayce by Molly Sims.  The entire collection is fab and I encourage all you ladies to check it out!


I had oodles of questions for Molly, and she has awesomely agreed to answer a few.

Sassy Fashionista: What inspired you to create Grayce?

Molly Sims: My mom has had a passion of collecting jewelry for over 15 years--and her passion became my passion.  She has scoured auctions and estate sales to find the most interesting pieces.  These pieces that my mom and I collected together really became the first thing that distinguished my own personal style.  I created Grayce to make these key jewelry pieces that women could afford so that they could make their own timeless jewelry wardrobe as I did with my mom.  

SF: Do you think that your modeling experience gives you a unique take on fashion; if so, in what way?

MS: My experience in modeling totally gives me a unique take in fashion.  I got to live in London, Germany, Paris, LA, and traveling and learning others style and the way they dress.   Getting that inside scoop on fashion has made all of the difference in the world.

SF: What's the best part of your job?

MS: I love being involved with Grayce because it is a process I have been able to see evolve and take part of from beginning to end.  

SF: Do you prefer classic or trendy looks?

MS: Both.  Usually my style is one of the four "Grayce girls":  Gypset/Bohemian, City Sophisticate, Glamour Girl, and All-American. I  am always mixing and matching.  I will never be too trendy or too classy. 

SF: What are the three accessories all ladies should have in their possession?

MS: A great statement piece of jewelry, a great coat, and a great pair of shoes.

SF: What is your fave piece in your collection?

MS: I love my mixed metal collection.  

SF: What jewelry piece do you think could be considered ageless?

MS: A layering piece that can be wrapped or  used in different ways...as a necklace or bracelet.

For more info on the collection, check out the site for Grayce by Molly Sims, or contact Heather Stein at  hstein@fullpic.com.

Style Spotlight: Style Folio

With all this ridiculous cold weather, it can be difficult to stay stylish.  That's why I tend to gravitate towards baubles galore in the winter.  The right piece of statement jewelry can make just about any outfit look glam and fabulous.


My recent find is Style Folio.  The site offers up oodles of gorgeous gems that are both timeless and unique.  It's fair to say that I'm in love with everything on there!


Here are a few of my top picks:

Purple Amethyst, Mother-of-Pearl, Shell Pearl and Crystal Cuff (originally $655, on sale for $368.44). I've never seen anything quite like this before.  The texture of the mixed materials makes the cuff interesting to look at, and the color brings out a bit of a nature-esque quality in the piece.

Shell Pearl, Gemstone and Marcasite Earrings ($295.00).  These earrings are super fun and are sure to attract attention.  They're classic, with just a touch of modernism and are simply beautiful.

 

Baroque Black Flower Necklace ($295.00).  This is by far my fave piece of the collection.  The necklace is perfect for a night out.  The pearls give the necklace an overall classic look, while the flower adds a bit of unexpected flair.

 

 

 

So, I know that these pieces are a bit on the pricey side.  But if you're going to purchase a piece of statement jewelry, it's very important to look for quality (especially in pieces as timeless as these).  

To help out, Style Folio is offering all Sassy Fashionista readers a 40% discount on everything on the site.  Just use the code "SASSY" at the checkout.  The offer is valid until 1/31/10. 

For more info on the collection, contact Yvette at yvette@click-marketing.net.

Greasy Hair Quick Fix Sans Water

We all have days when we're rushing around like madwomen trying to get 5748957430 things done.  Or even just days when we're lazy.  But being the gorgeous fashionistas that we are, it's incredibly important to have beautiful-looking hair at all times.

To achieve this on even the most stressful, busy days, I turn to an old classic.  Psssssst Instant Spray Shampoo is amazing.  Unlike other dry shampoos, it is odorless (which is really great, because some of the other alternatives smell hideous).

Here's how to use it:

• Shake can well.
• Hold can 6 to 8 inches from hair.
• Lift sections of hair and lightly spray scalp and roots of each section.
• Fluff.
• Wait a few minutes, then brush hair well.
• Style hair as desired.

It's so quick and simple, and I'm obsessed with it!  I'm fully aware that I sound like an infomercial right now, but I just want to alert you ladies of the wonderful greasy hair solutions that are available.

The best part?  You can pick up a can of it for about $6.

Drugstore Beauty Queen: Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure

I probably own about 100 nail polishes.  No exaggeration.  I just can't pass up a pretty polish, regardless of how extensive my own collection already is.

But when I found Sally Hansen's Complete Salon Manicure polish in Gray by Gray, I knew that I had a legitimate reason to purchase it.  I've never seen another color like it.

Though the hue is described as gray, it's actually more of a slate blue.  It looks gorgeous on and is unique enough for you to receive questions galore about where you acquired such a shade.

The formula itself is great.  Supposedly, each bottle contains all five steps of a salon manicure (base coat, strengthener, growth treatment, color and top coat).  While that might be a bit of an exaggeration, the polish definitely does go on smoothly and evenly with two coats.  That said, I still used it with my Seche Base coat and my Seche Vite top coat for maximum lasting power.  I found that the polish lasted about a week, which is really saying a lot for me, as I constantly pick at my nails.

I'm having a hard time finding this exact shade online.  I bought it at Walmart, but it's not on their site (or anywhere else for that matter).  But Ulta does have every single other color available for purchase on their site for about $8.

[Photo credit:  Body & Soul]

Style Spotlight: Grayce by Molly Sims

I'm pretty tickled by the Grayce by Molly Sims jewelry collection.  I've always been a huge Molly Sims fan;  she's absolutely gorgeous and clearly knows her stuff.  So, I think it's safe to say that anything she comes up with will be an instant classic.

Her jewelry line features pieces that are unique and quite stunning without being gaudy (which is quite an achievement!)  Everything in the collection is timeless and utterly fabulous--I have a little crush on each and every item on the site!

Here are my top three faves:

The Layered Link Bracelet in Hematite-Tone ($59.95).  I love the fact that it look as if you're wearing oodles of bangles, but you don't need to worry about them getting all tangled up.  The look is fabulous for day or night and has a bit of a vintage flair to it.  This is a timeless bracelet that will get a lot of use over the years.

The Signature Fireball Pendant with 17" Oval Link Chain in Rosetone ($29.95).  This necklace actually comes in a few different colors, but the Rosetone is my fave.  It looks much more expensive than it is and has just enough bling to liven up any outfit.  It's a very unique piece that is sure to attract lots of attention.

The Deco 18" Necklace ($98.95).  I know, I know...it's a bit pricey for us recessionistas.  But HSN has an amazing program that allows you to make three payments $32.98, which makes it a bit more reasonable.  I'm simply in love this this bauble.  It's the perfect statement necklace for any occasion.

For more info about the line, check out the Grayce by Molly Sims site, or contact Heather Stein at hstein@fullpic.com.

Look For Less: Marc Jacobs Into the Wild Scarf (GIVEAWAY!!)

On the left is the super chic Marc Jacobs Into the Wild scarf.  It's gorgeous (and pink!!) and I love it.  Unfortunately, it's a steep $130. 

Luckily, you can get the look with D&Y's Large Leopard viscose scarf (on the right), for a mere $21. Umm...pretty amazing, right?  The scarf is fabulous for any time of year.  Scarves are the easiest way to change up an outfit.  I like to tie one onto my handbag, or loosely drape one across my shoulders, but the options are limitless.

And I've saved the best part for last:  I've got THREE D&Y Leopard Print scarves to giveaway!!! 

Here's how to enter:  email me at SassyAlana@gmail.com with the subject "LEOPARD SCARF".  In one week (1/31), I'll pick the winners and alert them via email.

Good luck, ladies!! 

Disclosure:  This review contains a sample product sent for consideration by a PR firm. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.

Pretty Wild Palette

Mmmm...I love me a good palette.  Mark's new Pretty Wild Color Palette is right up my alley.

Included in this little compact from heaven is four shades of all-over color & shimmer (a cream-to-powder formula for eyes and cheeks), three sheer, glossy shades for lips and a built-in mirror.

The colors look great.  I really dig the black "all-over color" (umm...is anyone planning on wearing this anywhere other than their eyes?!) It looks like it'd work as a liner and mark's shadows usually blend spectacularly so creating a smokey eye look would be easy.  The larger shimmer would be perfect as a highlighter above the cheekbones.


Basically, this is a great palette to have with you if you're going out.  You can touch up everything, without even running off to the bathroom (although, please avoid application while on a date especially if the guy is sitting right across from you...not classy).

Oh, and how cute is the case?! 



Each palette is $14, which seems reasonable for what you're getting.

The Best of Stila--Huge Deal!!!

In the past, I've raved about Beauty Ticket and their amazing makeup sales.  Well, I'm still constantly on there searching for deals and this week I found the Stila 8-Piece 'Best of Stila' Ulta-mate Set.  It was originally a set exclusively for Ulta stores, and even then it was a huge deal as the set is actually a $143 value and it sold for $59.  Now on Beauty Ticket, it's going for $29.99. Really.

I've always been a Stila fan.  There have been very few products that haven't tickled my fancy.  It's pretty much one of my makeup "bag" (well, huge traincase) staples.

Here's what comes in the set:

• Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer
• Major Lash Mascara in Black
• 4 Eyeshadows in Kitten, Go Lightly, Wheat and Mystic
• Lip Glaze in ULTAmate Pink 
• and a deluxe size of convertible color in Peony.

Pretty great, no? I'd honestly pay that amount for the Kitten eyeshadow pan.  It's the perfect shimmery highlighting hue.  All the shadows are fabulous though.  It's a good mix--three neutral everyday shades and a pop of color. The tinted moisturizer is another one of my faves.  It makes you look super glowy.  Everything else is amazing too.  This isn't one of those sets that you'll only use a couple products from.  This is a great deal and each item is something every gal should have in her possession.

10 Ways to Look Better in Pictures

We all want to look amazing in pictures.  I don't know about the rest of you, but I have a plethora of pics that involve me looking like an idiot.  Here are a few ways to look fab when you're in front of the camera.

Fake a Tummy Tuck
Those who say the camera adds 10 pounds haven't tried this trick: "Twist your torso, turning one shoulder toward the camera and the other away from it," says Atlanta body-language expert Patti Wood. "It makes you look very slender." 

Pucker Up

"A berry lip color with a hint of sheen flatters everyone," says Los Angeles image consultant Mimi Dorsey. Avoid nudes, which can make you look like a corpse once the flash hits—and brights, which often come across as harsh.
Dior Addict Ultra-Gloss Reflect in Taffeta Plum, $26; nordstrom.com. 

 
Don't Drink and Pose
Try to take pictures early, before that third (or fourth or fifth) glass of wine. You're more in control, says Los Angeles makeup artist Troy Jensen. "And no matter how bright the flash is, your eyes will look droopy after drinks." 

Go Natural
Hair with movement to it comes across as sexier on film, so take it easy on the styling products, says N.Y.C. hairstylist David Evangelista. "You really don't want your do to look sprayed or crunchy."

Let the Camera Do the Work
"A good one doesn't have to be complicated," says Los Angeles celebrity photographer (and former model) Jack Guy, who swears by the Canon G series because it takes great pictures—and doesn't require expertise.

Stick Your Neck Out
Push your face forward ever so slightly, says Mimi Dorsey. "It feels absolutely ridiculous when you're doing it, but it makes your face look thinner and hides any sign of a double chin." 

Seek Out the Sunset
Dusk is the best time of day for outdoor pictures. "The lighting is really flattering," says Jack Guy. "The sun casts less shadow downward, so you don't end up with bags under your eyes in the photo. Instead, it lights up the area under the eyes and you look younger." 

Don't Sweat It

While it's nice to have a subtle glow to your skin, too much shine can be distracting, says Troy Jensen, who recommends applying a matte finishing product, like Clinique Pore Minimizer Instant Perfector. "Run it on the side of your nose, forehead and chin. It neutralizes shine instantly without feeling goopy."
Clinique Pore Minimizer Instant Perfector in Invisible Light, $18; clinique.com. 

 
Put Money Where Your Mouth Is

Cheese is great on pizza, but for pictures, say "money." "The strong e sound makes the corners of your mouth go up," says Patti Wood. "And the crinkles around your eyes make it look like a genuine smile." 

 
Trademark Your Own "Blue Steel"

Is your right side more flattering? Does a subtle smile look sexier? "Pull out all of your favorite pictures of yourself and see what you like," suggests Guy. "You'll probably find a look that's consistent. Once you know how you like yourself to look, it's much easier to replicate."

[Courtesy of InStyle]

REMINDER: Curations with Stefani Greenfield Giveaway Ends Tomorrow!

Just a little reminder for you ladies: the Curations with Stefani Greenfield giveaway ends tomorrow (1/20) at 11:59pm.


The bracelet is absolutely gorgeous.  To enter: email me at SassyAlana@gmail.com with the subject line "SNAKE BRACELET".  I will randomly pick a winner and alert you via email.

Good luck!!

Disclosure:  This review contains a sample product sent for consideration by a PR firm. My priority is to you, and I honor that commitment by being honest! If you have any questions about this, please email me.