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Sassy’s Summer Wish List

1 Jun

After reading my latest issue of Lucky Magazine, I discovered a cute little section that said, “Bold But Simple: My Summer Wish List”. This got me to thinking exactly what do I need to put on my summer wish list this year? Anyone who knows me knows that my makeup drawer is stocked, my skin care shelf is overflowing, and my closet is beyond jammed. Seriously…What could I possibly need for this new season? I decided to look at what I had, what doesn’t fit me anymore, what is out of style, what is beyond repair, and then I’d go from there.

After much picking and sorting, there were a few things I realized that I did need for the summer season. There wasn’t a lot, but there were some items that I thought were necessary. I have to say I’m pretty basic when it comes to my seasonal purchases. They usually don’t follow the current trend, and I can extend them out a few years no matter what the current style is. It’s easier to keep my wardrobe updated with trendy, inexpensive accessories then it is to buy a large expensive purchase that may only be a fad for one season.

With that being said, here are a few things that I think need to be incorporated into my wardrobe for this summer. Some may only be here for the season but others have the potential to stick around for a a while. And that’s never a bad thing. So what did I find? Take a look:

Maxi Skirt1. Tribal Maxi Skirt: In my line of work (tattoo shop manager), it is always best for me to be casual and comfortable. But there are days that I would still like to look pretty without me looking like a hooch and without me looking like a corporate suit. It’s sometimes a difficult task. This season’s maxi-skirt allows me to look feminine and still be comfortable. I love this skirt from dELiA’s. The print is edgy but the material is free-flowing and comfortable. And the slip up beside gives it just the right amount of sex-itude! A perfect addition when you want to show a little leg!! dELiA’s stores and delilas.com, $29.90

Sandals2. Shellys London ‘Valvori’ Sandal: We often think of sandals as the flat little strappy shoes that lack a lot of pizzazz. They’re great a super casual situation, but really can’t be dressed up too much. These sandals change all that. They have a nice chunky heel that is not too high, a lot of edgy buckle design that you don’t see often in sandals, and a whole lot of comfort. These can be worn casual with jeans, or dressed up with skirts. Although they are a little extensive in design, I have the feeling these will be able to be worn for several years to come. A solid investment! nordstrom.com, $93.76

Cropped Tee3. Material Girl Juniors’ Short-Sleeve Textured Cropped Top: There is nothing wrong with showing a little skin in the warmer months, and the best way to do it is with a sophisticated top. This breezy tee is the perfect addition for anything casual or classy. Give your outfit a little attitude with this simple addition. Everyone has tees but a solid cropped airy top should not be shunned this season. macys.com, $14.99

Sunglasses4. Nicole Miller Trinity Round Sunglasses: The fact is, no matter what the current style of sunglasses are this year, I’m going to need a new pair. Not because I like to keep up with current trends, but usually because I have misplaced or broke my pair from last year. I used to but super-super cheap ones at your local department store till someone said to invest a little money into them because you will take better care of them. That worked! I paid a decent amount for a pair of Nine West sunglasses years back which got me two whole years. That was until I put them in a pocket of a jacket and sat on them in the car. I was crushed. Even now I invest a little bit but not as much. I like this style and size simply because it has a bit of flare without making me look like a fly. Awesome–nailed it! tjmaxx.com, $39.99

Bag5. Corinne Straw Tote: I will admit, I’m slightly afraid of bright colors. With my hair doing most of the speaking when it comes to bold hues, I have to say my closet looks like a black and white comic strip. Getting my job at the tattoo shop was the best thing to happen to my dark, borderline goth wardrobe. This season, however, I feel I need something other than my blood red locks to draw some attention my way. This glamorous purse has the look of a straw tote with all the pizzazz of a glitzy, fashion-forward bag. Casual look with metallic accents will make you look like a star! bebe.com, $98.00

There. My wish list for summer. I’ve already began adding these little gems to my ensemble one by one, so it won’t be long and you and I will be able to rock the summer in style. Add some pieces to keep you cool and comfortable, add to your rocking edginess, and still allow you to be feminine as heck! Summer doesn’t have to be just cut-offs and flip flops. It can and will be HOT… in a fashion sense that is.

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Casually Wet Wednesday!

27 May
Casually Wet Wednesday!
Tomorrow’s outfit for the day: super casual with a graphic tee
& jeans, a bit of leather for the cooler temps, and long-wearing
makeup that will withstand the elements!
Oh, and perfect for my rockstar look too?…You bet!

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Loving This December…

13 Dec

imageOkay I know. I’m a slug. I haven’t written anything in forever. Sure I could give you the runaround story about being too busy to do this or that but the fact of the matter is with the holidays quickly approaching I’m just beat. It takes effort for me to even get the mail lately. I can’t blog about things that I experience on a daily basis because nobody wants to hear about road rage, packed parking lots, or long doctor visits. You want to read about fashion and glamour, and it is my job to deliver that to you. So let’s work with that.

It’s the beginning of December, and I found a few things last month that I really fell in love with. I try and try to tell myself I have more than enough makeup, skincare, shoes and clothes and don’t need anything else. I don’t even need to try or test anything. I like what I have. Yet without fail, something new makes it into my shopping cart every time I go to the store.

So let me give you a quick rundown of the things that I’ve discovered lately that I quite possibly cannot live without now. Of course, this may change. But hey… I’m fickle… I admit it.

image1. Meaningful Beauty by Cindy Crawford Serum – Okay, I lucked out on this one. I actually got this as a trial sample in the mail, and I’m very glad I did. We all know that serums are the wave of the future for skincare, and this one does everything you could possibly want or need. I admit, it gets confusing and cluttered having a serum around for every problem your skin might have. Fine lines, deep wrinkles, uneven skin tone, large pores, sagging eyes, the list goes on and on. And, of course, I needed something to fight every single one of those problems. Cindy Crawford’s Meaningful Beauty serum does it all. No lie. I use a little at night just before bed, and I’m done. If my skin is feeling really dry, I might add an extra moisturizer over it. But if not, it’s one product and that’s it. I love simple. I noticed a difference in my skin in less than a week after I started using this product. My skin’s tone was more even, my pores smaller, less fine lines and wrinkles. I mean a NOTICEABLE difference. If I didn’t have so many other products in my bathroom right now, I’d buy the Meaning Beauty skincare set today. But as soon as my inventory goes down, I’ll be buying this right away.

image2. Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish in “Hi Ho Silver” – I like metallic nail polishes just as much as the next person. But the fact is they just look like fake colored paint to me. Or my nails got hit by a glitter blizzard. If I want a metallic polish, I want shine… not frost. I began to look for a nice metallic polish for the holidays several weeks ago. I was finding nothing. The selection was so bad that I almost bought spray paint to do my nails. Although I was primarily looking for gold, silver was still an option. I’m glad it was because “Hi Ho Silver” is a fabulous color. There is no glitter or sparkles. There is no dull color. It’s a flat out super shiny silver like you would see on a brand-new car. It catches the light and shines dramatically. I’m really excited to try it with some nail art pens–I think it would be a great base for some nice designs. Not to mention?… Sally Hansen’s formula is great. It lasts really long without chipping or peeling. This was a great add to my manicure collection.

image3. e.l.f. Studio Blush in “Fuchsia Fusion” – It’s gospel that redheads and most pinks don’t like each other in makeup or fashion. But the fact is, I saw this blush in a glam mag on a redhead and knew right then I had to have it. It was flashy, it was sparkly, and it screamed sassy! I had often seen e.l.f. products at my local Target store, and had heard positive things about the items and their fabulous prices, but had never tried any myself. I started getting a few brushes which are great and affordable, but never got any makeup items. Until now. The blush was in stock at my store, so I was excited to be able to start trying it immediately. And at that price? It’s was a no-brainer decision. I love it! It doesn’t clash with my red hair and gives my pasty winter white skin a nice cool glow with a shimmery pop. Gorg!

image4. Moroccan Argan Oil Shampoo & Conditioner – I wish I could take the credit for this one but I actually have to give big props to my daughter. She picked out this set after reading that Moroccan Argan Oil is great for helping hair grow to strong and healthy….and fast! She liked it and yes, her hair grew faster, but she felt her scalp was itchy and was afraid it was this new shampoo that was causing it. So she put it off to the side. One day, I decided to read up on it a bit more. With my color-treated wavy hair, these products seemed perfect! “Organix Moraccan Aragn Oil shampoo and conditioner penetrate into the hair shaft to help mend your hair and give it strength and shine.” I like the fact the formula is free of parabens and sulfates making it safe for color-treated hair. Plus now with my wavy 80’s perm, it keeps my hair soft and silky, while protecting it against styling heat and UV damage. No frizzies here. I love how my hair looks and feels with these products. Finally, my hair is strong and healthy, without it feeling like hay in a wind tunnel. I guess one person’s loss is another person’s gain…at least it was in this house with hair products! Thanks to my daughter for my new hair goodies.

image5. Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Super Skinny Denim Jeans in Denim Blue – I will admit, my jeans collection is extensive. I do NOT need any more jeans. BUT, when I saw these I fell in love. The color is slightly washed out which makes them look more casual. But sharp! The fit is perfect without being too tight or too bunchy. And on one front pocket, there are cool little brass studs. They are über cute. I got them on a steal of a deal and were barely $10 by the time the discounts were taken. With winter weather upon us, it’s nice to have good fitting jeans that you can still tuck in your boots and not have be uncomfortable or look slouchy messy. These jeans are stylish! I’m glad I took the chance with them–even more glad I got more than one (or two!) pair.

Okay, Sassinistas… that’s my December list of new fashion and glamour items that I’ve fallen in love with. How about you? Do YOU have any new finds that you are loving on? If so, share away! I like to know what YOU have discovered…so maybe I can try it too!

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The Girl, the Perm, and the Midlife Crisis

30 Oct

MTVI‘m writing this as I sit in a spinning chair at a hair salon getting my auburn locks rolled into “tiny” little yellow perm rollers. When I retired my gummy bracelets, jelly sandals, lace hair bows and pink ruffled tops AGES ago, I vowed–VOWED!–never to get another perm. I also vowed never to get married again, stop drinking Coke, cut down on clothes spending, and give up spiked high heels. Yeah, that didn’t work so well. At all. So here I sit. It’s amazing when you proclaim to yourself that you are going to make major changes in your life what goes through your mind. I’ve “started over” for the last time too many times to count. I’ve been at the lowest of lows when I just basically said, “F&@% IT!” and started anew. Like my favorite quote says: “Rock bottom became a SOLID foundation on which I rebuilt my life.” Amen to that.

I don’t get in funks (I prefer that over midlife crisis, thank you) as often as I used to. I find things to keep me busy, keep me happy, keep me content more than I used to. I’m much more happy and satisfied than I used to be “many” years ago. (Note: Yes, I lie about my age, and I will as long as I can! So there!) Now I try to find small miracles and pleasures throughout my daily routines. But sometimes–like now–I get down and can’t snap out of it. Maybe it’s the change in seasons, less daylight, that whole Vitamin D thing, more stressed. Be advised that is when all should be warned something drastic is going to happen. Because I don’t deal with unhappiness for long. From myself or especially others. Ask yourself sometime, how much space, how much TIME do you have in YOUR life for negativity? Umm, yeah, I didn’t have time to do a load of dishes today so there probably isn’t any cheese to go with your whine either. NEXT!
Madonna

I used to color or highlight my hair years back when I needed a change. I don’t do that anymore, mainly because my auburn hair is my trademark and to mess with that would be like messing with karma. Yeah….. no. But a new cut? A new style? It’s extreme but obviously right now I need to make a bold move before I lose my mind. I need a new do to play with different hair styles, makeup looks, products to test. A new season is here and what a way to lift my spirits then by mixing and matching fashions, trying new nail styles, makeup looks and putting them all with the new hair style. I need a day in my room, a notebook for sketches and ideas. Add a camera to click pictures of my new creations then enjoy the fun of putting them into action.

I’ve done the clothes style change a few times. Tried the preppy look, went Coco Chanel-ish, dressed punk, went Cali girl, went call girl. LoL! Oh epic fails on them all. My style is rocker wild–head to toe! I love my black leather, my studs (ha!), my chains, my skin tight worn jeans and bold eye liner. Yeah, that may be so yesterday but it’s SO me. So even if I changed parts of my style, I’d still be me. And I like me.
Cindi

As far as being in a funk, I’ve even done the tattoo and piercing route. With as many as I have been through, I am (thankfully) coming to an end with all that. I THINK I’ve pierced everything I want and even things I didn’t know I could. I added five tats this year to my previous minuscule two that I already had. Part of me would like to think I’m done but I’m probably not. I don’t just ink to ink. Everything has a spot, a meaning, and a purpose. So we will see where life takes me, and see if it justifies a tat in the future. Perms wash out–GOOD tattoos don’t. Perms are cheaper too. Remember that if you feel antsy for change.

I’m rolled. My head is covered in elastic rods with hair yanked to the point of tears. What we do for beauty & happiness, ya know? As my girl begins to put the solution on my hair, the smell takes me back to my teen years. I now have an urge to listen to Tiffany and Cheap Trick, maybe even plan a mall tour. God, I need a life.

Tick, tick, tick. Back to the sink. More rinsing, more blotting, more solutions, even MORE rinsing, then the unroll with the final rinse. As I walk back to the chair, peaking through a raveled hole in the towel, I see my hair. It’s wavy, a bit lighter in color, and shiny as hell. I love it! I don’t even want her to dry or style it. I just want to pay the girl and head straight for home so I can style it up (and take some selfies of course!)

So what is the moral of this story? It’s kind of simple, in fact. You don’t have to be as drastic as me when it comes to an “I need a change!” revelation. Sure, you can go all out, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to FEEL like a goddess. Sometimes it can be reading a motivational book. Maybe it’s buying a lipstick in a color outside of your comfort zone. You could give yourself a manicure with a seasonal color or design. Lock yourself in the bathroom, pampering yourself starting with a deep hair condition treatment all the way to a pretty pedi with all the treats in between. Maybe it’s a new sensual scent. You can even take a drive, open the windows, crank up your favorite tunes and just go! (Take your camera…you may see some beautiful scenes!) But you see, I know me. And I knew I had to do something major, something drastic. Go big or go home. And I did just that. Big waves, big curls, big ego, resulting in a big dose of self confidence.

Adam Ant just came on the radio. I flashback to the music I was probably listening to when I got my last perm. Now I’ll take my memories of then, blend them with my new hair and current rocker-style fashions & accessories, stand straight and confident, and be ready to face any day head on. Hello me!!! Beside, how does that saying go?: “You can take the girl out of the 80’s but you can NEVER take the 80’s out of the girl.”? Today certainly proved that.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll drink a Bartles & James wine cooler if I can find one (strawberry of course), listen to some Kinks and do my nails…. neon pink, what else?

Sassy Auburn glamming off her new hair-do!

Sassy Auburn glamming off her new hair-do!

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It’s New… But Is It Good?

10 Sep

Back to schoolSchool is back in session and with that come all new fashions and cosmetics to help you get your vogue on! New styles, hot looks and chic accessories to help you make the start of the new season first-class fab! Today I stopped to talk to my favorite glamour consultant who was filled with the latest info on what was new on the market. What was cool is some of the things she showed me I had already tried, so I was able to give her my personal opinion as well. She helped me, I helped her!

So what are THE hot new makeup and glamour items out right now? Let me show you a few:

image1. Maybelline Volum’ Express Falsies Big Eyes Waterproof Mascara – The thought behind this product is supreme! Why someone didn’t think of it before now is beyond me. The concept is simple–the purple end of the mascara has a long, big brush to coat your top lashes to look full . The opposite black end has a very thin, comb-like brush to get at every skimpy lower lash to make them stand out. You can even use this brush to get in the corners of your eyes to coat those hidden lashes. My experience? I have been using this mascara on and off for a month now. The brush idea is great! I am really able to “get in” and coat ALL of my lashes with both brushes. The mascara formula? I’m not completely thrilled with. It does stay ALL DAY–doesn’t smudge or flake–but I don’t think it makes my lashes as “lush” as other formulas. I’m not quite sure yet if I’d buy it again myself. But for the price and stay power? Completely worth the purchase!

image2. Bath & Body WorksSignature Fragrance Collection Shimmer Mist in “Beautiful Day” – If you are a glamour girl heading back to school, then this is your time to shine! a shimmer mist gives you a flirty scent with an all-day sparkle to make you look, feel and smell fab. This scent paints you with a crisp top scents of fall apples, pears, peonies and blonde woods. Delish! My experience? I love, love, LOVE this new scent! It’s fresh for spring but has the scents of fall fruits to keep it seasonal. I layers this scent to help it last its longest: shower gel, triple moisture body cream, and the shimmer mist. No matter what is on my agenda, this scent just keeps me smiling all day!

image3. Maybelline FitMe Shine-Free Foundation – If you are like me, the thought of any type of foundation in a stick sounds like it would be heavy, greasy, any not in a shade that would match my skin at all. And up till now, that has been my experience. But Maybelline went a step beyond. They put a foundation in a gel with anti-shine core that neutralizes oil the minute you put it on and keeps absorbing to give you an all-day matte finish. Convenience combined with clean coverage–perfect! My experience? If the stop making this foundation, I’ll cry for years. In all my years of wearing, trying and testing foundations, I have never used one with such fabulous coverage but still feels light as air. I don’t have to worry about shine no matter what. It stays put and does slide off my face like liquids do when it’s hot. And convenient? The gel stick makes it a breeze to just swipe, wipe & go! A MUST-HAVE.

image4. Hard Candy All Glossed Up – I grew up on the glamour and convenience of pencils in a beauty routine and I’m very psyched when I see a company nowadays revamp the old crayon into a new, luxe makeup item. Sometimes they hit, sometimes they miss. The sad fact is, though, that crayons have a limited style life so they may be hot and hip with the current colors but then the seasons changes and the colors and sticks are gone. What is nice about these Gloss sticks is they are über glossy, but are infused with the long lasting pigments of a stain. Long lasting color with a non-drying formula. Exactly what a girl on the go needs! My experience? I really love this gloss stick. I have yet to find a straight-up stain that stays put, doesn’t dry out, or doesn’t stay true to its original color. Although this goes on like a colored gloss, the base color does stay true like a stain. Even if the gloss disappears during coffee or lunch breaks, the stay will “stick” around. Then I can just add a moisturizing gloss if my lips start to get a bit dry. Available in 8 go-with-all shades–great long lasting, drenching color that lasts. I will be getting more because they are SO convenient and simple!

image5. Maybelline Eye Studio Color Tattoo Pure Pigments Loose Powder Shadow – Maybelline is no stranger to the long-lasting eye shadow concept. Now they have come out with a loose powder with high pigmented color with no fall-out glitter. Yeah, I said those two things in the same sentence–no fall-out and glitter. In order to have this stay power in the past, shadows had to be a cream with a built-in primer and sealer. But now they have a loose powder in power colors that do the same!! My experience? Gotta say, I haven’t used it. But boy am I intrigued! I have more eye shadows than I know what to do with. But it might be a nice in an all-over highlighter color for me to build off of. Especially if it is high in sparkle and low in fall out!

Get ready–here comes the yellow bus! It doesn’t matter if you are getting ready to get on yourself or if you are putting on one of your own. Make sure you look your best! The glamour industry has so many innovative products now. Daily touchups are barely needed. Don’t think that these long-lasting make-up items are all hype. Seriously, most do what they say they will. I can’t tell you how convenient is not to run to the restroom every two hours! And as a student in school? It is a blessing. These all-day products certainly get an A+!!

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Glamour from Head to Toe!

16 Aug

imageAlthough so many opportunities are available to us redheads, sometimes we find ourselves limited other ways. While a redheaded female will almost always get a second glance in a mall, we are often intimidated by some fabulous fashion colors and trends that make us feel left out. I have made it pretty clear that I am out & about, a force to be reckoned with, and am beyond happy to show off my burnt-auburn tresses. Not to mention, I am VERY thrilled when I find an item in a color that kicks my look up a MAJOR notch. But I am often afraid to go bold or go home. Just call me “Nancy Neutral”. *Sigh*

It is not easy to be a sassy fashionista that is afraid of bold colors. If I could live my life like the Sunday paper– tons to say, decorated in black, white & grey– I would. But I can’t. It’s not feasible for a fashion and cosmetic writer to live in drib, drab & neutral colors all the time. Once in a while, I have got to have some pop and pizzazz in my look. So s-l-o-w-l-y I have been introducing colors that play nice with me in the sandbox with my red locks without making me look like a freak.

Recently, while blog researching, I came across these GORGEOUS Marc Fisher Joey Peep Toe Pumps in the clearance section of a fave local retailer. What made them so special and unique? THE COLORS! This wasn’t a Plain Jane, single colored shoe that looked like all the others I own. It was a bold pattern in purple, lime green and poppy. KA-POW!!! They. Were. Bold! I was a little scared about how “out there” they really were, but I loved them. Now…could I assemble an outfit with them that still flattered my red hair and personal style? The shoes were too gorg not to try!

I bought the shoes and headed to my favorite designer-discount retailer. With my new purchase in one hand, and a credit card in the other, I was bound to find at least one neon-green shirt that could make these shoes a jazzy outfit. And I did. In fact I found two! A nice 3/4 sleeve long tee and a sequined top to dress up or down. When outfits were put together with other pieces from my wardrobe, I stepped back in amazement as I ROCKED that neon lime green color in HIGH style. It brought out the brightness in my red hair and gave me something bold that I wasn’t afraid to wear. Usually, this would be way out of my comfort zone, but I liked how I felt in it. It was definitely rockstar-worthy for Sassy!

I challenge you. Step out of your comfort zone. Try colors that you may think look bad on you, but can actually give you a new runway stunning look. Ask for honest opinions. And rock your look with shades and styles that will keep you looking even MORE fab than you already are!
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What I DID Wear Today (A Follow-Up To Yesterday’s Post)

3 Aug

imageYesterday I posted a blurb about how I go about choosing my outfits each day, considering my endless wardrobe choices, my agenda for the week, the weather, and an array of other various things. I try to give myself some options because we all know that when it comes to plans?… they can change.

Like today.

I had four things to do. Four. Simple. Things. Did that go smooth? Oh hell no. One took two hours longer than it should have. One was never started so I couldn’t even do it. One got rescheduled. The last one went fine. Although my day wasn’t going to go as I had hoped, I still had to pick one of my outfits to wear that I had compiled yesterday before I could even begin my downward spiral. And I did. Of the three I had planned out, my selection was:

The leopard espadrilles, medium blue skinny jeans, neutral-colored sequined/ruffled tank top and black shrug.

It was a good choice because although the weather was forecasted to be cloudy with a chance of storms and temps only in the mid-seventies, it ended up being completely sunny and borderline hot. With the rays beaming down from the sun, unblocked by any clouds, it easily reached into the 80’s today. Because I had chose an outfit with a removable top piece, it actually worked out nice because I could leave the shrug in the car when I was outside and take it with me at cooler stores. I was on my feet a bit more than I thought I’d be so the espadrilles started squishing the toes by the end of the day, but all in all it was a good outfit selection.

So, what specifically was worn? Check out the picture below:
image

Black lace shrug – Body Central (2012)
Ruffled long tank – Plato’s Closet (2011)
Karma Blue Studded Skinny Jeans – TJ Maxx (2012)
Bandolino Leopard Espadrilles Peep Toes – Marshall’s (2012)
“J’adore” Gold Necklace – Nordstrom.com (2013)
Juicy Couture Goldtoned Hoops – Juicy Couture Outlet Store (2011)
Black Leather Bow Bracelet – TJ Maxx (2013)
Roxy Gold Fringed Crossbody Purse – Marshall’s (2013)

Although many of the items were purchased one or two seasons ago, I can still pretty much “guess-timate” that all of the above items were probably less than $125. Total. For ALL of them. Name brands at discount prices? Now THAT’S how Sassy rolls!!

Stay tuned for another day of “What Will I Wear?” coming up again soon!

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What Should I Wear? (A Routine Posting Now and Then…)

1 Aug

ClosetOn Sundays, I always take out my datebook and iPhone calendar to go over what I need to do for the week. Not just appointments either–I mean everything. Coffee dates, shopping, doctor visits, trips to the dry cleaner, shopping excursions, bottle returns, washing the car, even tattoo appointments! I have a closet full of clothes and sometimes its abundance can be overwhelming. And no matter what or how much we have, we all–at some point–will babble “God, I have nothing to wear!” Oh yeah, you’ll say it. And you should kick yourself right then and there because you KNOW you do.

Here is how I tackle the task of selecting or planning outfits. Remember anything can change on a moment’s notice, so choose wisely but also be flexible. First, I try to check the weather the night before to see what I’m facing temperature and precipitation-wise. Those two things alone can potentially eliminate 75% of my wardrobe. With that in mind I start at the bottom and work up. I try to select footwear first, followed by bottoms, tops, bracelets, necklace, earrings and finally a matching purse. Believe me, if you can have this in mind–or better yet set out–before bed?…the morning can go very smooth.

Let’s take my day tomorrow:

1. Head to repair shop to get punctured tire fixed. (Ugh–dread.)
2. Pick up a prescription.
3. Quick coffee with a friend at work.
4. Grab dry cleaning.

Okay, so it’s not a high profile day where I will be rubbing elbows with la dee da’s, and the chance of having to discuss my work with anyone new would be a 3 on a scale of 1 to 10. My agenda will be a lot of go here-go there’s, so I will want to look fashionable but not über high end. I still want be comfortable since I will be in and out of the car a few times. Walking won’t be extensive. Mingling will be minimal. But the bottom line is… I will be out and I want to look approachable. And that’s why I need to be be a classy yet comfy fashionista for the day.

Tomorrow’s weather is supposed to be cloudy, chance of storms, with temperatures around 77 degrees. With this in mind, I have now selected three outfits that I can choose from:

*** Black, leather flats w/gold chains; dark-washed skinny jeans; designer graphic tee.

*** Brown low-wedge pumps; light blue boot-cut jeans; short-sleeved, dark blue flowered sheer tee.

*** Leopard espadrilles; medium blue skinny jeans; neutral-colored sequined/ruffled tank top; black shrug.

The selected outfit will determine the jewelry chosen. If it is a more laid-back outfit, like the first, the jewelry will be bolder and busier. Shoe color ultimately determines the purse. The black flats will put me into the black purse department. A large, embellished bag might be a perfect choice. The brown pumps might lean me towards a brown/tan shoulder bag. And those killer espadrilles scream gold or bronze mini metallic purse. Sad to say, I’m not lacking in the purse department. At all. I admit…bags are one of my weaknesses.

So, I will post this tonight with an update tomorrow (and hopefully a picture!) with what I chose and whether it was the right choice for the daily agenda. We all know things can change and nothing is written in stone. And if the weatherman is even remotely close here in Upstate NY, that in itself, would be amazing. So, we shall see!

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Must haves for… ANYONE?!?

28 Jul

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imageIt’s true that for each skin tone and hair color, there are a few “must haves” that don’t apply to others. Redheads NEED to have a brown eyeliner and a peach lipstick. Olive skin tones NEED to have metallic eye colors and blackest black mascara. Blondes NEED to have a bold red lip and earth toned tops. But some things that I have found stylish or necessary can work for anyone. In fact, some are flat out “must haves”. So what are Sassy’s can’t live withouts? Let’s take a look:

imageTape – Don’t laugh. “What do I need that for?”, you ask. You’d be surprised! Other than defurring whatever you pet owners are wearing, it can also make your purse look newer if it doesn’t have a dust bag. My biggest use for tape?–glitter fall out. Even with the best primers, glitter shadows and blushes can scatter their glitter everywhere. I always do my eyes FIRST after cleansing and treating my face. I apply primer, foundation, concealer and blush last, after the eye. And lips? Not a bad idea to tape them before applying lip products. This will help remove any tiny pieces of dry skin that can make lip colors look blotchy and flaky.
HINT: leave a roll of blue painter tape in the bathroom for just these situations. It is less sticky and there is less tugging in delicate areas.

imageA Newspaper Print Tee – You’re like… huh? Let’s go back to Sex and the City, circa 2000. Carrie wore a dress by John Galliano for Christian Dior from their Spring line in the series and it took off. You cannot find that dress anywhere now. It’s vintage and if it was for sale, it would probably be insanely expensive. So since you can’t have the original, go for a substitute. I’m not huge on dresses, but I have THREE newspaper print tee shirts and they are treated like gold in my closet. I didn’t buy any of them new–I got each from a consignment shop or thrift store at ridiculously cheap prices. I love the fact it can be part of a no-think outfit. A newspaper top can be worn with ANY jeans, ANY black skirt, ANY shoes, ANY hairstyle and ANY makeup look. Even though I have three already, I always keep my eyes open for other styles. They are funky and edgy with a whole lot of chic!! Always check out second hand stores before going new–way more vintage, way more classic.
Sassy Found: Bonmode’s Vintage Inspired Newspaper High Low Tunic Top, amazon.com, $39.95

imageWhite Eyeshadow – Some people think that a white shadow can make them look washed out, but it’s better to think that white shadow gives an artist a blank canvas. Matte or shimmer, powder or cream–white shadow gives you so many options for so many looks. Sometimes I’ll use my white cream shadow as a primer to hold powder shadows on and give them a brighter look. Other times I’ll just wear a white shimmer shadow with heavy black liner and mascara for a simple, sexy look. Work it how you want…just make sure you have at least one, and wear it often!
Sassy Found: Maybelline EyeStudio Color Tattoo Eyeshadow in “Too Cool”, most drug stores, $6.99

imageLots of Bracelets – Just like shoes, purses & jeans…you can never have too many bracelets. I never was a big bracelet wearer mainly because I have wrists the size of a newborn baby’s. Bangles would always fall off. Now I don’t know if jewelry makers just got smart or women’s wrists just got smaller, but the options out there now are endless. Mainly because the majority of fashion bracelets are elastic. (Yeay!!) Mix and match gold tones and silver tones. Leather bracelets are always classy. If you are like me and love that rocker look, stack and layer them. I like putting “biker bracelets” with pearl or rhinestone ones. And chains? Chains are SOOO in! The chunkier… the better. In warm weather when sleeves are short, don’t leave your bare arms hanging. Dress them in some slammin’ baubles for an attention getter!
Sassy Found: Simply Vera Vera Wang Two Tone Bead Multistrand Stretch Bracelet, $21.00; Two Tone Curb Chain Multistrand Bracelet, $7.20; Silver Plated Crystal Bead & Heart Charm Woven Leather Stretch Bracelet, $80.00, kohls.com

imageFavorable Notoriety – Ummmm…. what? There is nothing that locally owned, non-chain stores LOVE more than: a) favorable word of mouth; and b) repeat customers. I have a few small stores in my area that I frequent at LEAST once a week. Sometimes I leave with something, other times I just browse. But I always make sure I say hello to the owner, manager, or sales people when I go in and chat them up. I also make DAMN sure that they know what I do, I know my designers, and I know the current (or upcoming) styles. Why? Because that gives you the “in” on anything new and hot, sometimes even before the general public if you’re cozy enough. I know a girl who works at my fave “gently used” clothing store. If something from a high-end designer comes in that I might like?… I get a little text telling me to stop in. OR if they really know you shop their store a lot?…They may even offer you a loyal customer discount. When you get a compliment on that jazzy Guess? tee you picked up for $6 from your “Mentor Mecca”, tell them WHERE you got it and how much you paid. Don’t think of it as a used $6 tee…. you think of it as the high-fashion expensive designer tee shirt that you landed for an INSANELY OBSCENE price! It won’t take long before your face and name (and with me…hair!) are known and you can reap the benefits!
Sassy’s Favorite Find: Authentic Sheer Roberto Cavalli T-Shirt in Black WITH TAGS (est. retail $55.00), my cost $8.00, Plato’s Closet.

Sometimes, the most cherished items in your glamour ensemble are things that someone else wouldn’t think twice about buying or owning. They are unsung heroes in a glamourista’s closet, vanity and personality. They might not be something you think you would like, but I challenge you to try. Time after time I find more things that I may not have thought about ever wearing before and now see them as sassy chic. It might be a photo in a magazine, it might be a certain look on a model or actress. Maybe it is a “revolutionary new product” or maybe it is something classic from days gone by. Whatever you see that makes you go “hmmm” for more than a couple of seconds, make a mental glamour note that THAT thing might be your new signature feature….then give it a chance!

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Sassy Redheads Love Denim!

19 Jun

imageBeing a redhead, I am pre-programmed to know what colors look good on me. I can wear green, I cannot wear reds (or so I think). I can wear browns, I cannot wear pastel pink. I can wear purple, I cannot wear lilac. I try sometimes to sneak taboo colors into my closet, but their time there is often short lived because I’m afraid to wear it.

The one tricky color for redheads is blue. I can say, without a doubt, it’s the most difficult color for me to feel comfortable in. Royal Blue? Oh no!…. That’s like arsenic to my fashion code. Powder blue? Eh….it’s okay but washes me out even more. (Really…can deathly pale look any worse? Ah, yeah.) Turquoise blue? That, I have to say, I do well with. Probably because it has yellow undertones which go with my auburn hair. Dark blue? Gag…. next.

These colors are out in the makeup and fashion world all year ’round so they are unavoidable. You just need to try, blend, mix, discover. Although there are many shades of blue, the one constant on the fashion pallet is not just a color but a material too–denim. Denim blue, no matter how varied in shades, it is a must in a redhead’s–or anyone’s for that matter–closet. I LOVE MY DENIM!!! And now with jeans being just as classy and dressy as they are casual, everyone with all hair colors need a varied collection of denim fashions.

Oh trust me…it took a long time for me to become a fan of denim jeans. Before? None of them seem to fit me right–too loose here, too tight there, too long, too short. Bah. I virtually gave up ever finding a nice, chic pair of jeans that looked and felt good all over. Then someone suggested I try to find a pair of jeans at a thrift store. Ummm… huh? They said they have been worn out in some places, shrunk to fit in others, have their color faded perfectly and…oh yeah…are cheap. So for a couple of weeks that’s what I did. I tried on all brands and sizes of jeans imaginable till I found what I loved. It didn’t take long to find certain brands and styles that fit me like a glove. And that enabled me to make jeans my number one priority in my wardrobe. Woot!

Now just because blue denim jeans are a must for my edgy, rocker-girl look, that doesn’t mean denim starts and end with jeans. There are so many other pieces (and accessories) where denim blue can play a fab role!! So how can this strong-spirited, must-have help take an avant-garde girl to the next fashion level? Let’s see what Sassy has:

Jeans (of course). I can easily say 1/3 of my closet is full of jeans. I have several pair of skinnies, boot cuts, jeggings and straight cuts in all types of washes (stone, whiskered, dark, acid, destroyed). Each cut and each color has a time and place. A nice date night may call for a pair of dark skinny denims with a sequined cami and a nice boyfriend jacket, finished with a pair of platform pumps. A day at a family birthday party screams faded stone-washed straight-legged jeans, maybe even with a few select worn holes. Top it with a graphic tee and a pair of contrasting gladiator sandals and you have a fun, comfortable look for the day. Always remember there is a pair of jeans for almost ANY occasion–you just need to find them. SASSY’S FAVORITES: dELiA’s Morgan Low-Rise Skinny Jean in Charlotte Wash, dELiA’s stores and delias.com, $46.50; Guess Starlet Leg Jeans in Noisy Wash, guess.com, $89.00
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A denim jacket. A denim jacket, no matter how old you are, is a must. This “Plain Jane” piece has been around for decades with only a few changes here and there depending on the latest fads. A standard denim jacket is a staple for both men and women. Women are the primarily the ones who enjoy jazzing them up to go with the current fashions. Me personally? I have a basic dark wash denim jacket — but I love to add accent pieces like pins, scarves, chains and rhinestones for a jazzier look. SASSY’S FAVORITE: Women’s Denim Jacket (also available in petite & tall) in Dark Worn; oldnavy.com, $34.94
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Jewelry. Yeah, that’s what I said…jewelry. Granted, there aren’t a ton of pieces out there that fall into this category, but what you find will probably look cool. Plus, when it comes to jewelry, it doesn’t have to be actual denim material. A denim-colored jeweled necklace can make a pair of boots, straight-legged jeans and a white classic top look stunning. And bracelets? Perfect! Find some denim blue rhinestone bracelets and stack them up with black leather cuffs, pearls, and links for a bold look that matches with its own style! SASSY’S FAVORITES: Napier Silver Tone Bead Multistrand Stretch Bracelet in blue, kohls.com, $18.00; 2028 Crystal Flower Pendant Necklace, macys.com, $38.00
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Purse. This gets a little squirrelly in my book. I think an all-denim handbag can look SO out of place with a pair of jeans if the wash and style aren’t the same. Some say it’s trendy, I personally say it’s match-y and gauche. If you want to integrate some denim with your bag, find a purse that has pieces of denim in it or has other materials and textures to break up the look. Your bag should compliment the outfit, not be a piece of it. This will be a challenge. I’d prefer to say phooey and just compliment your look with a nice black or metallic bag. But if you must… SASSY’S FAVORITE: Coach Poppy Pop C Denim (Groovy 15351), amazon.com, $228.00
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Eye Shadow. Ok, duh, I know you can’t glue pieces of denim to your lids, but there are some stunning shadows out there that are denim hued that will finish off your look with a pop of color that will look good on anyone. Stay true to the denim shade–don’t lean towards powder blues or midnight blues. You will know it when you see it. Use it as a crease accent with neutrals for a highlighter and lid shade. Use a fine liner brush to extend the crease color to the outer corner and along the bottom lash line. This will give you a soft smokey look for day and night wear. SASSY’S FAVORITES: Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow Smooth Hold in Little Blue Dress, macys.com, $19.00; Maybelline Eye Studio Color Pearls Marbleized Eyeshadow Duo in Downtown Denim, CVS & cvs.com, $6.99
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With warm weather upon us, extend the denim look into some capris and shorts as well. Same rules apply with the colors and washes. What is great about summer denim is you can make your outfit look simply FAB by rocking some stunning sandals or footwear to really take those basic blues to another level. Denims can last a long, long time and will usually last longer than its style. To keep them looking as new as possible, wash them inside out, in cold water with a splash of color safe bleach. It’s also best to wash all your denims together without any other clothes. This will prevent any color from bleeding into other items and keep them soft, fresh and bright. With the right denims that fit you perfectly, you will have the one fashion that will ALWAYS be your best friend!

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