Holiday Wish List...

It's finally here!  A holiday that justifies spending outrageous amounts of money on the people you love and wasting hours looking for the perfect gift!  Even if you don't celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah, use this time to take advantage of great sales, massive availability, and adorably themed kick knacks.  In case you need a little inspiration, here's part one of what I'm getting for my friends and family this holiday season...

The Fashionista:

1. Mac lipstick in Hue
2. OPI nail polish in Teenage Dream
3. OPI nail polish in Black Shatter 
4. Fashion Designer Sketch Book from FredFlare.com
5. Mask from FredFlare.com
6. Beret from Aeropostale 
7. Bedazzled bracelet from Forever XI
8. Teen Vogue
9. Skinny Bitch by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin
10. Moccasins from American Eagle 

The Canadian

1. Asos panda hat
2. Starbucks hot coco
3. Moose Stuffed Animal
4. Juicy Socks
5. Fluffy hat
6. PINK spray
7. Mittens from Nordstrom
8. Moose shirt from French Connection
9. Snowflake Ornament from Kmart
10. OPI nail varnish in Nice Color, Eh

More to come... <3

Best Dressed AMAs

The VMAs were amazing this year; there were incredible performances, a crazy audience, and hot celebrities.  But, naturally, we're not interested in who won what, but rather who wore what.  Who was wearing fierce fashion, and who was just frivolous?

1) Nicki, I know I can't ask you to rap any better (because you're already totally awesome) but would it be too much to get a stylist that isn't a Lady Gaga fan?  The outfit above is tackless and simply ridiculous. 

2) Ke$ha's infamous get-ups continue to shock us.  The dress resembles a garbage bag (most defiantly intentional) and her face looks weird and wacky.  I maintain that you should either have a bold eye [brow], OR a bold lip, OR bold hair, not all three.

3) The eighteen-year-old Miley looks relatively tame for this event - except- it look like someone accidentally got toilet paper stuck in their undies.  How embarrassing!  The dress would be beautiful if it didn't have an awkward trail.  

1) Who is that?  Taylor Swift ditched her signature curls and sported a razor-straight do.  She emphasized her lean figure with a sparkling mini-dress and matching heels.  The look was simple, stunning, and oh-so Taylor-esk.
2) Fergie traded in her skimpy lingerie for a skimpy dress instead.  The dress was defiantly a statement, but also elegant and chic.  The outfit was perfectly paired with black open-toe pumps.
3) Post-wedding, Katy is looking very conservative and sweet.  Perhaps she was playing house-wife with a lacy and long dress.  On the other hand, she wore a playful pink, proving she hasn't changed that much!

My Favourite Scents!

I have a friend, who I love to smell.  Sounds creepy?  Well you can't judge until you smell her too.  She probably has around 20 different perfumes and they all smell absolutely amazing!  Although it's great to list all her perfumes so you can buy them all, what smells great on her, might not compliment your body chemistry.  Perfumes smell differently on blondes, brunettes and redheads in particular. Additionally, you might not even like the smells that I like.  We all have our preference of what we like to smell.  For instance my mom cannot stand the smell of roses.  We also may dislike smells or like smells because of what they remind us of something special.  In fact, Our ability to remember smell is greater than the ability to remember things that we have seen.  Perfume must also suit your personality and mood.  So girly-girls best wear floral fragrant.   
When buying a perfume, there are a few essential things you need to do before making the investment.  First, always always always try the perfume first.  Spray it on your skin and let it sit for twenty minutes to see how it reacts with your skin.  Also, don't compromise the perfume with the bottle.  Although it's hard to resist buying a perfume because the bottle is cool, no one is going to see it but you, where as everyone is going to smell it. 
If you wear the same perfume every day it will become harder and harder to be able to distinguish it, so the more and more you will spray.  It's a huge no no to be able to be smelt before seen, so I strongly recommend alternating scents.  To take care of your perfume, don't expose it to extreme temperature and sunlight because it will alter the sensitive smell of the perfume. To prevent this, keep it in a cool dark place.  There is also a special method to applying perfume.  The sexiest way to wear it, is spraying it on your hair, neck, and behind your knees. 
The most crucial thing to remember is buy a perfume that sums you up in a smell.  My personal favorite scent is HOT bu Ralph Lauren.  It's a flirty, fun, exciting perfume, that smells like mocha cream, maple, almond, and vanilla.  Hope this helped!

A Royal England Wedding!

It's my first royal experience since moving to the UK last year!  It has been announced that Prince William, who is second in line to the throne, will be marrying his long-term girlfriend, Kate Middleton, some time next summer.  The notification was made first on Twitter, slightly unconventional, but still exciting (there will be a princess, and potential queen in our midst).  The timing couldn't be more appropriate, as this summer marks the thirty year anniversary of William's parents, Princess Diana and Prince Charles' wedding.  It seems bizarre to be experiencing a royal affair, but it is awesome!  Their wedding date will be a national holiday (no school) and it will be the most talked about event of the season!  Here's some advice on how to be inspired by the princess-to-be....

The engagement outfit and ring...

Traditional chic English style...

I hope their marriage will last, and that Kate will become the next 'people's princess'.

Boots Fall 2010/11

You can tell your UGG boots to hang tight because you won't be needing them for a while.  Boots are the hot topic this season, with a huge variety available, each as adorable as the next.  It doesn't matter if you want heels, comfort, laces, leather, or thigh-high, they're all strutting down the catwalk, so to speak.

Dr. Martens:

I doubt you expected to see these any time soon, but Doc Martens are quite the accessory.  They are no longer just worn by rebels with bad taste, like John Bender from The Breakfast Club.  They say vintage is current, and it seems that it's true.  Best paired with jeans and a v-neck, they can add a nonchalant edge to your everyday look.




Laced Booties:
For the less-daring, more sophisticated fashionista, this is the perfect alternative for a Fall boot. Usually, they are accompanied with a skinny heel and delicate adornments like buckles or beaded aglets.  They can be dressed down with jeans or dresses up with a holiday mini-dress.

Glam Camp:
A bizarre mixture of work-boots and stilettos, these boots are a girl's best friend.  Not only are they completely and utterly gorgeous, they're freakishly practical; they have a lot of ankle support and the heel is generally thicker, so it's less likely you'll roll onto your ankles.  Additionally, they have super grip on the bottom because they're made of rubber.  These are without a doubt my favorite boots this season!


Riding Boots:
Traditionally worn by preppy girls, the riding boot is now really for everyone.  They are extremely chic and polished, and will give any sloppy outfit and instant boost.  It's important to find a boot that fits your leg perfectly, because too loose can make your calves appear larger that they are, and too small can result in smooched, purple legs.  They are perfect for causal days shopping with friends in an oversized sweater.  Or, alternatively, they can be paired with thick, girly tights and a sweet dress in the evening.



Thigh-highs:
Not for the fait-hearted, thigh-high boots were a huge hit last year, and continue to be this year.  If you're looking for a statement piece, here's the perfect opportunity to liven your outfit.  Although I encourage you to wear this trend, do not, under any circumstances, pair these boots with a Julia Roberts Pretty Woman dress.  They should be worn with something quite conservative to avoid the stripper facade.


Be sure to pick up your perfect boot before the holidays.....

Old School

They're called classics for a reason!  The preppy old-school look has been reinvented more times that can be counted, and appears to be going nowhere.  The look is sophisticated, sweet, and sexy; ideal for school, parties, and even just hanging out....

Look 1: Chillin'
Even when out with the gals, it's important to look stylish, and this look is easy way to do so.  Pair jeans with a plain or textured white t-shirt.  Add a chic navy blazer and an awesome pair of sunglasses, just like Rachel Bilson.

Look 2: Classes

You want to look neat going to school, but at the same time, you can't spend a life-time choosing an outfit and getting ready.  Katie Holmes' look bellow is perfect because it's smart, but the jeans dress it down.   

Look 3: Night Out

A spin on the classic school-girl look, Olivia Palermo sports a polished white blouse tucked into a black tweed pair of shorts.  It's a elegant, cosmopolitan style and a faithful outfit to have for nights out.  

Home Sweet Home...

Living 3000 miles from home can be tough!  I've been living in London for almost a year and I still miss my mom's cooking, American accents, and of course the shopping.  I'm certainly not denying the amazing stores and products in Europe, but there are some things that can never be supplemented.  Hence the homeland-induced insomnia.  To comfort me my mom sent me a basket full of goodies that I miss, like Bath and Body Works, Hershey, and even a can of white tuna.  Mom - I'm vegan!  I urge everyone to send a little basket to someone they love for any occasion whatsoever!

homesick2 by amylauren@life featuring heart jewelry

Vanilla Bean Noel Pocketbac™ Deep Cleansing Hand Gel - Anti-Bacterial..., $1.50
Vanilla Bean Noel 14.5 oz. Filled Candle - Slatkin & Co. - Bath & Body..., $20
WTF self-inking stamp, $12
4 oz Candles - Candles - Bath & Body Works, $9.50
BYHOLMA, $5.99
willow branches natural, $349
Vera Bradley Three Ring Binder in Carnaby, $12
Rudy's Cocoa Mint Pocketbac™ Deep Cleansing Hand Gel - Anti-Bacterial..., $1.50
Anne Hathaway Vogue Magazine November 2010 Cover Photo - United States
Money Saving Mom: Walgreens: Cheerios for $0.99/box
Purple Hershey`s Dark Chocolate Kisses
Reese's Pieces - Candy Favorites
Polish Galore: OPI Burlesque
Bath & Body Works - Anti-Bacterial Moisturizing Hand Soap Twisted...
Free Photo Hosting provided by Use.com

love ya by amylauren@life featuring a forever21

Forever21.com - New Arrivals - 1000005985, $2.80
philosophy 'cinnamon buns' shampoo, shower gel & bubble bath, $16
Vitaminwater Lip Balm Biggie, $8
Pier 1 Imports - Water Hyacinth Laundry Basket, $20
Peanuts hot chocolate mixes, $10
floppy disc sticky notes, $14
Lindt - Lindor Truffles - Dark Chocolate 550 Ct Case
Free Scrapbooking Software Templates Embellishments Backgrounds
victorias secret PINK dog
Merry With Children: August 2010
Lindor Truffles by Lindt: Do you dream in chocolate?

Busy Busy Bees...

Some people are rather pedantic about their hair.  They must always wash, heat, and style their hair stunningly, taking any means to attain it.  Trust me, it takes one to know one.  So for all y'all crazies out there, like me, who are obsessed with achieving perfect hair, here's how....

1) The purpose of shampoo is to remove dirt, oil, and dead skin, without eliminating too much sebum, therefore creating a dry scalp.  Hair stylists advice washing your hair every-other day so the hair is not too greasy or to too dry.  My favourite it shampoo is Paul Mitchell because it leaves my hair fresh and smell really sweet.  For days when hair is a little more oily than usual, dry shampoo is ideal.  I prefer to use Ojon Rub-Out Dry Cleanser because it has an amazing coconut scent and doesn't leave a white powder in my roots.  A cheap alternative to dry shampoo is to use talcum powder, however it can be messier and less effective.

2) Conditioner is the best way to improve the appearance and texture of your hair.  It creates shiny, smooth, controllable locks of love, by conditioning and restoring the PH balance.  It's best to use a matching shampoo and conditioner in the same way it's best to use a primer and foundation in the same brand, because they work simultaneously together.  I use Paul Mitchell conditioner and love it very much.

3) As equivalent of face-masks or a mani-pedi, hair masks work as a special treatment to remove excess product and further moisturize hair.  I adore Lush masks because they truly smell incredible and recuperate your hair in several manners.  If you can spear five minutes once a week, this is the ultimate way to pamper your hair and achieve luxurious results.

4) For everyone who uses heat on their hair in the form of strainers, curlers, and ever blow dryers, a heat protector spray is a quintessential product.  It acts as a protector ageist the heat that burns (and thereby damaging) your hair.  I like to use Bumble and bumble.  The outcome is healthier looking hair, and a smoother texture.  It's especially advisable if you are planning to grow-out your hair.

5) Designed for hair that is textured or damaged, controlers can be used in multiple capacities.  For example, de-frizzers, heat and humidity gels,  curl-definers, etc.  They help maintain nice hair all day long.

6) Stylers are methods of varying your hair from the same bland look every single day.  They include hair sprays and volumizers in the form of sprays and mousses.  They are very popular with flirty, fun chicas like Lauren Conrad and Nicole Richie who like their hair in unique up-dos everyday.

It may seem overwhelming and unnecessary, but in truth, the above doesn't take that long complete and the results are priceless!

Spring, Summer, Winter, or Fall

It seems a whole lot of people are going to a whole lot of extremes to look good theses days, when in fact it's a lot easier than you think.  Deciding if you're a Spring, Summer, Winter, or Fall can aid you to looking and feeling better.  The best part?  All you need is 5 minutes, a piece of paper, and a mirror.  So let's spring into action!

Firstly, are you warm-toned or cool-toned?  To find out hold a piece of white paper underneath your chin and stand opposite a mirror.  Close your eyes, count to ten, and then open them again.  If the first thing you notice is the paper then you are warm-toned, but if you notice your face first, you are cool-toned.  Now try the quiz....

If you're a spring...wear bright, bold, and clear undertones such as warm greys, camel, almond, olive, golden, and navy.

If you're a fall...wear subdued rich warm colors, like those on leaves; golds, reds, and yellows.

If you're a summer...you're ideal colors are soft, dusty, and nude colors with cool understones; heather greys, and slate blues.

If you're a winter...dress in deep, rich colors, bright icy pastels, and dark navy charcoals.

Stain, gloss, balm, stick...

Different methods, same principle.  Everyone wants their lips to look irresistible and there are so many ways you can achieve it!  Here are the best ways...

1) Lip balm:
Lip balms are for practical, on-the-go gals.  They are super moisturizing, repairing, and perfect for tough winter weather.  They offer a little color to liven the face, but not enough to overpower it.  It's a natural, simple alternative to lip color.

2) Lip stain:
Lip stains are the newest craze in the beauty industry and there is plenty of justification why.  Lip stains or tints are incredibly durable and provide plenty of color.  They are also easy to use, therefore ideal for a busy bees.

3) Lipstick
Lipsticks are for girls of sophistication and style.  Although lipsticks are less durable and harder to apply, the pay off is worth it.  They are bolder and much more chic.  There is also more variety available; from creams to matts to glitters.  Whatever the type, you are guaranteed and polished look.

4) Lipgloss
Glosses are the ultimate favourite for most girls.  It's fun, flurty, and quite frankly irresistible.  Their light reflecting pigments help enhance the lip and make it appear larger.  Gloss is perfect for everyone because it requires minimal touch-ups, has an easy application, and looks good on anyone.  All you have to do is kiss and tell!

Grrrr....

Looking for an adorable gift?  Then look no further!  This season's silliest trend has to be animal beanies.  These benign bear hats cause quite a commotion and attract a lot of positive attention.  If you plan to wear one, make sure you're prepared for your hat to become a hostage at least once or twice!

Vegetarian Fashion....

Celebrities including Lea Michele, Jorja Fox, Mike Tyson, and Natalie Portman are vegan.  A vegan doesn't eat or endeavour meat or animal products typically on account of animal wellfare.  At sixteen I became a vegetarian because I felt I wanted to protect animals and reduce my carbon footprint.  I always intended to become vegan, however that entails giving up Uggs, leather boots, and I would never be able to purchase a Mulberry handbag.  After a lot of considering and deliberating, I decided I would take the challenge.  Fashion with compassion!  I am so lucky that it's getting easier and easier to be vegan.  In addition to new restaurants and recipes, there are also now designers, like Stella McCartney, creating vegan-friendly collections, giving it an ethical and ecological eminence.  All man-made materials, and just as gorgeous.  Check it out.....

Looking For a Coat?

Who says fashion can't be practical?  Coats are particularly cozy this season, to counter the brutally cold winter predicted.  There's nothing better than walking in a winter wonderland, especially when designers have a stunning variety of coats available.  From capes, to military and fur to aviator; get ready for trends that steal our hearts, at well as our money.    

Cape:
Is it a snuggie? Is is a pancho? I don't think so! The cape has magically invaded the Winter runway, and ever so stylishly.  As seen in Marc Jacobs and Zac Posen's collections, the cape is extremely elegant and romantic.  Not to mention deliciously warm.  As a statement piece, it should not be worn by the faint hearted.







Animal:
Those, like myself, who would never wear fur can relax and hang tight, as it's fo-fur and animal prints being worn down the runway.  Worn in moderation, animal prints can be very attractive and classic. Popular prints include, zebra, cheetah, leopard, and even some feathers.  It certainly is a wild force to be reckoned with.









Military:
It seems the military look is abiding longer than predicted.  It's still hot to trot (or march) this season.  Featured in primarily dark greens or black, it can be seen adorned with shiny brass buttons, cargo pockets, and parallel lines.  This neat coat will match perfectly with all the other military-inspired items you probably purchased in the last few seasons; boots, hat, pants, ect.

Aviator:
Look what landed on this season's runway.  I was partly named after Amy Johnson, the 1930s British female pilot, who is known for setting multiple long-distance flying records, so I am thrilled the fashion world is embracing and incorporating air trends.  The trend is a branch off military and extremely chic.  It gives any look as kiss-ass appearance with a adventurous facade.






Camel:
As predicted, this beautifully styled coats had become quite the du jour.  The camel coat has the advantage, rather like a little black dress, that it matches almost everything, with of the ability of being dressed up or down.  The dreamy colour complements most complexions.  Make sure the coat is simplistic and structured, and you too can rock this look.  

Glitzy Glam . com

Blair and Elle Fowler are celebrities in my dorm.  You can bet between classes we're not talking about Linsay Lohan's latest calamity or what Katy Perry wore last night.  Instead, we're talking about the epic youtube beauty gurus Blair and Elle. 
The first time I watched their videos, I subscribed immediately, an aberration for me.  They are both super quirky, fun, and of course their knowledge of makeup is outstanding.  They are extremely stylish and have impeccable tastes.  The majority of their videos are makeup related, but other times they're about hair, nails, hauls, and fashion.  Elle and Blair have become so famous on youtube, they've been invited to NY fashion week, interviewed various celebrities and have been on ABC news. I have to admit it's so much fun to live vicariously through their crazy successful lives. 
To accompany their channels, they also have a website where you can shop all things girly.  Their store ships worldwide and the products are great quality.  They sell door signs, headbands, laptop covers, clutches, thermals and so much more.  Although it's practically impossible to choose, I think favorites products available for purchasing include the agendas, tampon holders, and the key chains.  Their signature is monogrammed letters and Lily Pulitzer inspired patters.  Everything is available in tons of designs and of course, your choice of lettering.  Even better is that the website is updated every month with new and better products and they're also expanding in size and variety.  GlitzyGlam.com is magnifique, just like Elle and Blair! 
Check it out http://www.glitzy-glam.com/store/

The Fall Fashion Forecast!

It's finally here; The Fall Fashion Forecast!  This season I'm so excited because there are so many great styles to try and trial.  Plus everything is so wearable.  We have evolved past neons, metallics, and florals to more simple, more fabulous trends.  Simplicity is key so I guess the saying less is more is true.  Prada and Chanel in particular produced stunning designs this year.  It's not wonder the September issues were so fat this year.  Get ready for the fashion that eats our hearts as well as our wallets......

Tweed And Plaid
Chanel, chanel.  Tweed and Plaid is Coco's signature and perfect for this Fall.  The textile rage is very pristine 50s, so raid your European Grandmother's closet for essential Chanel vintage pieces.  Do not, however, allow this look to become outdated, but instead, accessorize with Blair Waldorf in mind.  Keep it crisp, girly. and sweet. 

Esquire
Be inspired by the English country side this fall.  If you can't quite get your head around this trend, think menswear meets preppy.  Be sure to buy riding boots, blazers, and vests to complete this cool look.  And if you're feeling a little adventurous....even a mad-hatter tea hat. 

Leather & Lace
The Project Runway 'underdog' group won with Lace & Leather inspired looks.  This trend is very edgy and modern, but not the easiest to wear especially if you're no longer in your twenties.  If you think you can rock it, go all out with leather skirts and leggings or lace dresses and shoes.  The combo is wicked stylish.

Sweater
The D&G collection was super cozy with cable-knit after cable-knit unraveled down the aisle.  Chunky sweaters can be cinched with a skinny belt and patterns can also give the illusion of a slimmer body.  Don't just stop at tops though!  Skirts, dresses, and jackets are also very popular in this texture.

Camel
This beautiful creamy color is the essence of simplicity and yet it's still so stunning.  Boots, coats, sweaters will all be featured in this color so be sure to pick up one or two of the latter.

Military
The military scene is so British, so naturally no one does it better than Burberry.  To go military be sure to incorporate army greens and creams into your wardrobe.  As it was a big trend during the summer, don't spend too much more on this look, but instead work with the pieces you already have.  Buy a chunky book with buckles, or cargo pant instead.








 

Global Traveler
Although Betsey Johnson is the extreme, you get the idea.  The Traveler trend strangely incorporates a Southern American and nature style.  Think if you went to Peru and met some natives what clothes would they wear?  The important thing to remember is to keep the look messy and imperfect.












 
50s
My ultimate favourite.  The 50s style was the main feature in the Louis Vuitton Fall collection.  It celebrates the full figure and the power of simplicity.  All models wore their hair in flirty ponytails and little makeup was used.  To duplicate this look, wear full dresses or skirts with low cut tops.  The waist should be accented with a belt or bow. Lastly, accessorize with Jackie Onassis lady gloves, leather handbags, and low heels.

Taylor Swift - Mine

I haven't blogged in a super long time so I wanted to write about something very 'me'.  Since I have no idea what that is, I went with the best next thing - Mine.*  Taylor Swift's new music video, Mine, has been released and I'm so excited.  Although I'm all for candy worlds and crazy costumes, it's nice to see a more relatable video.  Her outfits are really relaxed and cute and her makeup is pretty signature, but still sweet.  So here is how to achieve Taylor's look.

*The clichés will improve once I start writing more frequently :p

My Summer

My summer was fabulous and I appreciate you letting me take some time off!  But no worries, because soon I'll have daily blogs again!  Can't wait!
Love, Lauren

Runway to Take-away (Ruffles)