Not Fashion, Not Beauty, BUT NECESSARY!!

1 Dec

While in my car today, driving home from my day of fun which others may call “work”, I had a brilliant idea for a blogpost. It may not sound like a big deal, but any thought process after a long day IS a big deal. I was thinking about the things that I need, I have, I love… that don’t really fall under any of the major categories–clothing, fashion, shoes, bags, accessories, makeup, skin care, or beauty products in general. But certain items are a must have for me. Some are things that still shows my style, my love of glam, and my glitter-ific personality. Some may be to help my day go smoother, some help me start calmer. They may not be things that apply to you but you’d be surprised how even a simple thing can let the world know you are casual and outgoing….and all while still being exceptional. An anomaly. A rockstar. A sassy, fierce individual who’s going above & beyond. Of course, glamour ombré lipstick and glitter gel eyeliner will cause heads to turn but how about a few other things to make them look and wonder. Or things that just make your day a little brighter, a little easier, a little more tolerable. Maybe things like:

1. A stunning cell phone case
2. A fragrant candle
3. A pen & pencil you like
4. A perfect manicure
5. A GOOD cup of coffee
6. A great cup to put it in
7. A cool key chain
8. A messy hair-day headband
9. A chic iPad cover
10. An old-school notebook

So, as you think about these random things that you may have never thought about before, I’ll share with you my selections for these somewhat common items that this Sassinista chose to embellish on:

1. Apple iPhone Zebra Shell on silicone case/black & hot pink
Jazzy style, cool design, hot colors. Definitely a case that says, “diva”! Since the major part of my day is on the phone, I am going to want to get some motivation, even if it’s just from the case!
(accessorygeeks.com, $12.99)

2. Better Homes & Garden jar candle in Candied Caramel Pecan
A nice, sweet scented candle that just gives the room a homey feel as you go about your day–at home or at work!
(Walmart, prices vary by store)

3. Pentel Icy Automatic Pencils & Pentel Energel Pearl Deluxe Retractable Gel Pen
They are pink, they are sleek, and they write damn good. Plus pink makes me smile.
(Walmart, prices vary by store)

4. To give yourself a perfect, easy, at home manicure, you need three things:
* A sticky base coat
* A long-lasting nail color
* A long-wearing, fast drying top coat
If you use these three products, you should only need a mani once a week. I suggest getting Orly Bonder Base Coat, OPI Nail Lacquer, and INM Out The Door Top Coat.
(Sally Beauty, prices vary & check for sales)

5. Dunkin Donuts Chocolate Glazed Donut Ground Coffee
If you perk or press your first cup of the day, this is a great flavor to have. Mix in different creamer flavors for some tasty creations.
(Most grocery markets, about $7.99)

6. “That Metal Show” oversized coffee mug
I get that this might not be for everyone, but this cup is my fave! I’m reminded of my love for heavy metal that this great show brings me. Mix in my morning cup of energy, and I can conquer the day!
(shop.VH1.com, $13.95)

7. High Heeled Shoe w/red bottom (Louboutin-looking)
With my love of shoes never a thought away, it only seemed appropriate I put one on my keys. It’s very noticeable & a great conversation piece. Plus it keeps my husband from taking my keys!
(amazon.com, many varieties to choose from)

8. Charming Charlie’s Epic Headbands
I loooooooove Charming Charlie! Such unique pieces when it come to accessories. I really love their headbands since the variety gives me many options to look at and try. Since looking sassy is how I roll, they give me so many choices for just that!
(charmingcharlie.com or a store near you, many sales going on now)

9. INSTEN 360-degree Swivel Leather Case For Apple iPad 2/3/4 (leopard design)
My life is my iPad. It’s my writing savior, it’s my note taker, it’s my main communicator. So, if I’m going to entrust it with my information, it needs to be protected. And this cover is perfect. The good news?… It’s chic, stylish and protects. The bad news?… It was a lot more expensive when I got it! You peeps are getting a great deal!
(walmart.com, $7.99)

10. Pierre Belvedere Letter Size Snap Portfolio in Fuchsia
Yes, people, there is a these here with black and white designs or hot pink and glitter accessories. This is no exception. As I writer, ideas come to at any time, any place, any situation. Don’t think I haven’t been in a one-size-does-not-fit-all doctor sheet writing notes about the epic manicure the nurse just did. Because times like this can happen anywhere, a great portfolio is good to have with me. Plus it holds papers, business cards and necessary writing instruments to keep my writing flowing smooth. The ipad is nice, but the written word is true and dominant to me. I like it.
(amazon.com, $25.50)

So, not every day has to be spent at luxury clothing store, a consignment shop, or at the makeup display of any and every cosmetic counter to look and feel great. Sometimes overlooked things for the busy, business professional female can still make you smile and give off that aura of, “Yeah, I rock!” And they make you smile when you see them or use them yourself. Take your sass-itude to a whole new level without breaking the bank… and add a little pizzazz in the process!

Sassy thingsSassy itemsSassy items

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DIY Night Cream…That Works!

25 Nov

SleepingA little while back, I saw a do-it-yourself recipe for a night cream that seemed easy to make with ingredients that I know had great anti-aging properties. It has been a while since I’ve made any of my own natural skin care, but after researching some of the new ingredients and knowing the nature of the familiar ones, I thought I would give this one a shot, especially with the change in seasons.

After making it about two weeks ago, and using it nightly since, I have definitely noticed a difference in my skin. When I get up in the morning, I thoroughly wash my face (exfoliating twice a week) and can notice softer skin, smoother complexion, less fine lines, and a nice even glow. Very good. Very good indeed.

Of course, me being me, I had to tweak the recipe just a bit to make it the way I like it, but I had my reasons which I’ll explain. But so far, this inexpensive, totally natural night cream is my go-to savior as the temps start to drop and my skin gets drier.

So, ready for me to share? Get a pen because a few things you may have to find…and I’ll tell you where.

Sassy’s Super Night Cream

2 tsp. beeswax – Beeswax is a skin protectant, healer, softener and fights against bad bacterias that can set into dry or chapped skin causing irritation or inflammation.
1 1/2 tsp. coconut oil – Again, coconut oil can fight against dry skin by improving the moisture and lipid content of the skin.
2 tbs. almond oil – A staple in my home, almond oil has many positive qualities to benefit the skin from head to toe. This is a true gem that helps balance the PH of the skin, removes dark circles around the eyes, and reduces wrinkles.
1 tsp. grapeseed oil – Oh, my favorite oil! Its benefits are endless–who knew? It’s great in a night cream because its properties help reduce skin inflammation, tightens skin, moisturizes and fights aging.
1/4 cup aloe vera gel – Like many of the other ingredients, aloe helps fight acne, moisturizes and fights aging. What’s great about this specific ingredient is it is not oily and is quickly absorbed to make the night cream light and less greasy.
1 tsp. raw honey – Honey does a lot of what the other products do, but in a raw, fresh way. In addition to the general properties of the other ingredients, honey will also open your pores (making them easy to unclog with your morning wash) and helps give your skin a nice glow.
2/3 tsp. bentonite clay – Yup, this one is probably new to you. It was for me! But after researching, I find this is the most important ingredient. This clay actually comes from volcanic ash, packed with beneficial minerals while binding to removing toxins. According to Mountain Rose Herbs: “Bentonite, also referred to as Montmorillonite, is one of the most effective and powerful healing clays. A good quality Bentonite should be a grey/cream color…anything bordering “pure white” is suspect. It has a very fine, velveteen feel and is odorless and non-staining.” The clay can actually produce an electrical charge so when working with it, PLASTIC OR WOODEN UTENSILS CAN ONLY BE USED to do the mixing.
1/4 tsp Unsweetened Hi-C Lemonade Powder – This is a great add to give the cream a gentle scent but also adds Vitamin C and Citric Acid which helps to reduce pore size, brighten the skin and speed cell turnover to keep skin looking young.

DIRECTIONS–FOLLOW CLOSE!:
In a small, microwave save plastic bowel (with cover), add the first 3 ingredients and microwave on medium for 1 minute on medium. Remove carefully and stir with a wooden stick or plastic spoon. Repeat for 30 seconds, stirring about a minute in between till wax is melted. Add the aloe gel, grapeseed oil, lemonade & honey into the melted mix. Stir gently and repeat till the cream is completely blended, smooth and is beginning to thicken. While it is still soft, add the bentonite clay. REMEMBER–PLASTIC BOWLS AND SPOONS ONLY! NOTHING METAL!!! Once smooth with no lumps, cover and put in refrigerator for about 2 hours. The steam in the container will add natural moisturizer with the cream. Take out for about an hour before use. One it is out, it can stay at room temperature.

Most of the ingredients you can get either in the market or on eBay. Here is a list on where I found these items:

Almond Oil, Grapeseed Oil, Coconut Oil can all be found in the baking aisle of a regular supermarket usually. You might want to try a higher-end market that specializes in organic products. The Hi-C Unsweetened Lemonade packet can be found in any supermarket drink-mix aisle.

Beeswax can be found on different EBay stores. I get mine from EBay seller “paypalsale”. You can buy just one ounce which is more than enough and shipping is free. Find the link to their listing –> here

Pure Aloe Vera Gel can also be found on EBay. I got mine from EBay seller “bodygrin”. You can find a listing for the aloe gel with free shipping –> here

Bentonite clay can be sold with additives so it’s important to find a pure product. I really like the one I got from EBay seller “hedys-haven”. You can find a link to their clay –> here

This recipe will give you a decent sized container of night cream that can be kept out next to the bed or on your bathroom counter. The “cream” can be a little waxy with the amount of beeswax used, but I like the health benefits that the beeswax contains so I add a bit more. Even waxy, the cream will melt at skin temperature, so it will go on thin when warmed between the fingers. Make sure you wash your face in the morning because the night cream will turn the cells over while you sleep and you will want to wash the “old” ones away in the morning, leaving your face feeling soft and looking bright & young!

Have fun making yourself a natural, healthy night cream that does what you need and more… without unneeded chemicals, additives or the added price of retail advertising. Not to mention, with the amount you’ll get out of one batch and how little you will use? You probably will have enough to keep you looking young for pennies for a long, long time!

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It’s Not Winter… Yet.

23 Nov

imageThe calendar says November. Last time I checked, winter started sometime in December. And Christmas came AFTER that. So even though the leaves all are off the trees, my local stores have their decorations up, balsam wreaths are for sale, and Santa is at the Mall, I’m sticking with all my might not to lose sight of the fact it is fall. My favorite season. And I’ll enjoy it while I can.

Now, the fact remains we have already had about an inch of snow fall outside my back door, my furnace is on, firewood is being delivered this week, and all of my boots and sweaters have been brought out of storage. It did get cold. Really cold. Really fast. But I still see my lawn, I still see fallen leaves, and I still see my pumpkins on my front step. In my mind?… autumn is still around. And we can enjoy a few transition things to keep us looking and feeling our best before we look like an Eskimo–24/7.

So what are a few things I am glamming up on before the Arctic chill officially hits? Check out these pre-winter but still fall goodies that I’m finding are a must have right now:

imagePaul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum – Snowing or not, we have to acknowledge that furnaces across America are kicking on. And this, in turn, is causing hair–my hair!!–to get dry and frizzy. When I got a sample of this clear wonder, I figured I would give it a shot. The only thing that concerned me was the fact that the bottle stressed to only use ONE PUMP into my hands, rub together, and run through hair. I’m like, “Glamourista PUH-LEEZE! I’ve got hair longer than a horses tail!” One? Okay…sure. We will play by rules. So I put one dollop in my hands and ran it through. And yes!…. one just about did it. I added a little more to the ends just to make sure they got coated too. But I must say a little does goes a long way so use what it says! It seals moisture into each strand making it shiny and keeping the frizzies in check. Perfect for the weather right now! (Sassy gets hers from paulmitchell.com)

imageForGoodnessGrape Gingerbread Lip Balm & Sugar Scrub – I love the scents of all of the late year holidays. I am the only one in the house, however, who is a big fan of gingerbread. I can buy it and no one else in the house eats it. Perfect. Awesome. Proper. When fall hits, I love all the seasonings associated with the season. I burn candles, mix oils & bake breads and other delicious delectables with these sweet spices. So if I can burn them and eat them, why not wear them if the opportunity arises? So I do! ForGoodnessGrape is my go-to resource when my lips begin to get cranky with the seasons changing. With a flavor for any holiday, season or mood, they always have something to keep me and my lips happy. I use the sugar scrub to gently exfoliate the chapped, dead skin on my lips then replenish and seal in moisture. Their gingerbread combo is one of my favorites this time of year. And yes, my lips certainly like it too!! (Sassy lands these goodies at forgoodnessgrape.com)

imageL’Oreal Paris Infallible 24 HR Eye Shadow in “Bottomless Java” and “Iced Latte” – Im not sure why but I wear very little warm colored clothing in the spring and summer months compared to what I wear in the fall and winter. I probably only have two pairs of brown flats and one pair of brown sandals. That’s it. But for fall and winter? I have at least two pair of high boots, a pair of suede over-the-knee boots, and at least two-three pair of shorter, combat style boots. I wear more brown and ivory sweaters than any other color (after black of course.) If I’m going to rock some slammin’ style in warm color tones, I need some makeup to match. The Infallible Shadow line from L’Oreal has always been a favorite of mine and they’ve even added more colors! Now I have two great warm shades to compliment my look when brown earth-tones make their way out of my closet. Because these two eye shadows can really make your eyes POP! with the right mascara and liner, I suggest keeping your lip shade natural with a hint of clear shine or a gentle nude long-wearing gloss. You won’t need to worry about your eye shadow, though. Any Infallible shade from L’Oreal will stay put. All. Day. Long. Epic! (Sassy grabs these eyeshadows at CVS.com)

imageMacy’s Material Girl Kurt Combat Booties – Speaking of boots, I have my own personal theory about boots and changing seasons: boots should get higher only when snow rises and the temps fall. So, when the weather is 30 degrees on Monday and 55 by Friday, lower booties are just fine for now. And I have my fair share. Some are leather, some are suede. Some are grey, some black, some brown, even some taupe. If I have the outfit, I have a pair of boots to match. I have a wonderful pair of black suede combat booties that I have had forever. They fit great, comfortable as heck. But I wanted another pair with no heel height in leather just for a change up now and then. This was a well thought out purchase: reading reviews, checking style, and considering comfort feedback. Then, the day I went to order them, I got an online code for 25% off. Score!!! I love how they fit and feel. Nice support, true to size, and comfortable for all day wear. Great find for the fashion closet that was very reasonably priced. (Yup, Sassy grabbed this gem at Macys.com)

image“Dolce” by Dolce & Gabbana – I don’t know. I’m just one of those girls that feels she needs to start a new season with at least one new fragrance. This year, I did it a bit backwards I think. I ordered a new fragrance for fall that caught my nose (and those of my fellow workers) almost immediately. It had a dark, alluring, almost naughty edge to it. It was deep, and honestly, that’s not usually me. But this one worked. So I gave it a try. Well, I’m still loving it, don’t get me wrong, but I think it’s a bit too heavy too early. So I’m backing that scent up in the drawer and getting a new fragrance that I got as a sample in my boot order. Dolce & Gabbana is one of those companies that usually always delivers an appealing scent to me, for both men and women. This one didn’t let me down either. It is fresh, feminine, elegant and youthful with significant notes of white flowers and white amaryllis. This scent can be worn all year round since it doesn’t really reflect the season, but more the person wearing it. The sample sold–I will be adding this rollerball to my collection this week! (This was a great deal for Sassy at Nordstrom.com since they NEVER charge shipping!)

So, you see? There is room in between seasons where adjustments can be made to your fashion and glamour collection. In addition to adding a few new things, take this transitional time to go through storage to sort out your next seasonal collection of clothes. Try them on, ask yourself how much you wore that piece last year. Once or less? Put it away in a box for a consignment shop. Check their condition too. You may love that glitter Guess sweater beyond words, but if it’s faded, has a hole or two and missing sequins, you’ll have to realize it is only being held together by memories…you may have to say goodbye. It’s okay. Really, it is. Plus, we know fashion: As soon as that new Vince Camuto ombré sweater catches your eye… you’ll forget all about that other one.

Fall divider

Enjoy the rest of your fall!

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“Easy Come, Easy Go”–Fall Style

9 Nov

Easy come easy goTick Tock, Tick Tock…

Okay, let me sum this up as best as I can, as quick as I can:
It is 11:40 pm
1). I have insomnia
2). I’m beyond stressed
3). I’m watching repeats of Sex and the City

No big deal, right? Actually right now, it’s not. But when Carrie starts going mentally nuts because Big wants to leave his wife for her, it will get very tense. I understand… to most of you, that means nothing. But to those who understand, I’ll pause for a moment while you get a Swiss Roll and a pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

Even being somewhat back in the workforce hasn’t completely taken me out of the world of SATC. I still know every episode and the storyline and outcome of each. The one I’m watching right now? “Easy Come, Easy Go.” Oh, I could go through the plot but it’s really involved and you probably either already know or don’t care.

But I will spin the episode title a bit for the sake of this post: Easy come, easy go. I can apply that to this week, specifically. A few things came and went for this fashionista. And they all had their own personal relevance. So let’s incorporate this theme into Sassy’s agenda:

imageEasy Come–Converse Chuck Taylor All Star ‘Ox-Sparkle Wash’ Low Top Sneaker.
This purchase was easy peasy. Fall is here…walking in heels is dangerous, flats can get wet, too early for many boots. So what do you wear when the whether is sh*t but still want to have some style? An epic style of Chuck Taylor’s. This pair looks a little like stone washed denim but in black. Definitely jazzy, and if you pair them with a nice pair of straight legged dark wash jeans and a layered look hoodie top, you’ve got a nice ensemble for a casual day! A fabulous add to my new seasonal footwear. (Sassy’s Steal: $44.99 (sale), Norstrom.com)

imageEasy Go–Aveeno Ultra-Calming Makeup Removing Wipes.
Getting late? Too tired to go through the whole nightly face routine of washing, exfoliating, treating, moisturizing, etc.? Keep these by the bed for those lazy nights! I stand by the statement: never let the pillow be your washcloth. But you can just rid your day of the dirt, grime and makeup with this pre-moisten cloth that takes everything off your face, even mascara. Just an easy wipe-wipe-gone! Keep a sample size of your favorite night cream & eye cream just treat your face after you’ve said goodbye to all the goop. (Sassy’s Fave: Yes To Blueberries Age Refresh Cleansing Facial Towelettes, $6.59. CVS)

imageEasy Come–Roxy Hooded Sweater.
I know I probably already have a sh*t ton of sweaters packed away to get me into this season, but with me kind of expanding my writing as well as putting in time with the tattoo shop, I need some comfort and warmth too. I’m trying to bring out the lightest weight sweaters first, and TJ Maxx has a great array of Roxy tops at fabulous prices. Warm, fun hoodies, soft and comfortable makes these sweaters a staple in my closet now. I picked up a black and neutral one to get started! (Sassy’s Steal: $29.99, TJ Maxx stores)

imageEasy Go–Philosophy’s Homemade Honey Buns Shower Gel and Lotion.
I love checking out TJ Maxx’s skin care, make up, and body area when I go. I have a few products that I specifically look for because the price is so good if I find them. This venture didn’t get me what I usually look for but it did land me a set of sweet smelling, delicious body treats that are perfect for the changing seasons. The bath & shower gel smells just like warm honey breakfast rolls right out of the oven. A great way to wash the blues right down the drain. And it’s an “easy go” for dry skin with a non-greasy body moisturizer in the same tasty scent. A great way for those stresses to say buh-bye with a smell so soothing to the senses. (Sassy’s Steal: $7.99 each, TJ Maxx stores)

So you see how an episode of Sex and the City can be turned around to fit even into the simplest days? I turned “Easy Come, Easy Go” into an article about what needs to come into your glamour collection for this fall. But that’s just a general rambling about what I did tonight. Stay tuned because Fall is upon us and I will be trying and discovering more and more things soon, without a doubt!!

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RIP Oscar de la Renta…

21 Oct

OscarThe fashion world lost an icon this evening. Oscar left us designers, fashionites and Sassinistas at the age of 82. Although he had been battling cancer in the past, we do not know as of yet what took the life of this glamour icon.

Everyone in the industry knew him. He dressed the best of the best. His style was his own, but never the same twice. He dressed you for you. And it showed.

Thank you for all you have done, the roads you paved, the stars you embraced, the dreams you helped make reality for so many. Fashion will never be the same. You will be missed Oscar. By one, by all… in this every-changing iconic industry.

Thank you Oscar for showing me that my auburn hair would look stunning with a red gown!Thank you Oscar for showing me that my auburn hair would look stunning with a red gown!

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The Redhead, The Disaster and The Extensions….

14 Oct

Sassy AuburnOnce upon a time, there was a sassy redhead who loved her red tresses. They were her signature “accessory”. She loved to design her look with her fiery locks in mind. Not to mention… she had the attitude to match!

Then, tragedy occurred.

Somewhere in her clouded mind, this feisty redhead thought that a head full of long, red, wavy curls would look fabulous. And just like she was back the 80’s, she spent hours in a salon with stinky processing solutions and tight rollers that gave her a migraine headache. When she was done, her hair was full, curly and bright with color.

To quote the title of a S. E. Hinton book: “That Was Then, This Is Now”.

After a few weeks, her color began to turn a bland red with no shine or finesse. Her waves turned into a huge hairball of frizz. And every time she would brush, comb or wash it, hunks would break off in her hand. Eventually, the damage became so bad, she needed to cut away most of her marred mane just to salvage what was still in tact. The sad part? To do this she had to cut off about 6″+ of her beautiful ruby stands. Unfortunately, what was left wasn’t very healthy and needed continuous TLC. It was going to be a long process.

It didn’t take a lot of thinking to convince the sassy redhead to go to a new salon. On a referral from her friend, she found her hair savior beautician who worked magic better than Houdini. The red tresses got stronger, the perm s-l-o-w-l-y relaxed and her hair became more and more healthy. The only thing that was still frustrating? The length of the locks seemed to be taking FOREVER to grow. She wanted her long hair back…now! (Did I mention redheads are impatient too??) So she asked her magical hairdresser what she could do to get her long hair back sooner. The answer was obvious and not cheap if she was going to do it right. The only option: extensions.

With samples from her beautician, the sassy redhead thumbed through the options for her extensions. Colors, materials, grades, textures, the works. This Sassinista decided these were going to be an investment, something she would utilize for years to come, so she wanted the best of the best. She had worked hard for the money she was going to use to buy them, so the decision was hers: another pair of Manolo Blahniks that she’d wear only twice a year… or gorgeous long, red hair that would lift her spirits daily. The decision was easy. Hair it was.

Two weeks later and five sets of real hair auburn red extensions in hand, this sassy girl–moi!–got the hair she had always wanted. It was long, bright and soft, and it felt like it was made just for me. I was in tears, so happy that I had my long hair back…and then some. But now I was faced with a new challenge: keeping my new hair looking fresh and natural. With the proper instructions and the right products, I actually have found this to be very easy!

So what are some necessary items to keep my new long hair investment looking and feeling fresh, natural and healthy? Check these items out:

pure Image Shampoopure BLENDS Color Depositing Shampoo – This shampoo is part of the pure blends fade prevention and color correction system. The shampoos come in a variety of shades so you can create the tone that you like best and keeps your natural or enhanced color looking bright in between trips to the salon. It is sulfate & sodium chloride free, created with an herbal blend, plus is keratin and collagen infused to create a hydrating formula that will eliminate color fade and color washout. I use a combination of two parts Red and one part Marigold to give me the bright red I love with a hint of copper. The pigments are strong, the scent is appealing and the color is perfect to keep my hair blended perfectly with my extensions! A fab find for my hair. (Check salons in your area poor ones that sell the pure Blends line.)

RouxRoux Color Refresh Mask– If you are finding that you need a major “oomph” in your color that your shampoo can’t keep up with, this is a great way to get a mini blast of temporary color that can hold you over in between freshen-up dye jobs. This product is sold in a packet with a reclosable tab so you can get almost two uses out of a packet. Follow the directions exactly for the best results, especially about timing how long to leave it on. Although the color selection is very limited (only four!) I have found that by mixing the Fire Red with some of the Light Beige Blonde gives me the shade for me. This with the pigmented shampoo really keeps the frenzied fading reds in line! (Sally Beauty, $3.99)

Miracle 7Miracle 7 Leave-in Mist For Extensions – When I got my new hair, the one thing I was told was, before I combed it with a wide-tooth comb, to spray it with a healthy detangling spray. This one is just for extensions and is great. It helps to reduce static electricity, frizz and tangling while helping to blend your natural hair with the extensions. It also protects against UV damage which can cause fading and increase a natural looking shine. This is a must use for me every morning and every night before my routine comb out. (Sally Beauty, $13.99)

Wet BrushThe Wet Brush – Okay, ever since I started really taking pride in my hair and its health, I knew that the ultimate no-no was to brush your hair wet. It pulled, it broke damaged strands off, and it weakened even healthy ones. The Wet Brush does help reduce that, but I’m still a wide tooth comb after washing girl however. What I do love about The Wet Brush is that it is super gentle on my natural hair and extensions when they need a brush fluffing. The tips are super soft and the bristles are über pliable so the hair–real or extensions–aren’t pulled, tugged, or ripped out. A super gentle brush to give your hair body and shine. (Sally Beauty, $8.99)

Paul MitchellPaul Mitchell “Hold Me Tight” Hair Spray – Some hairsprays I think are in a competition to see who can hold your style the best in the middle of a hurricane. I’ve used “solid hold” sprays that actually held my hair in place because it turned my hair solid! With my new extensions, I needed a spray with a light, manageable hold with flexible control while still locking in moisture and shine. I’ve had many sprays over the years on my bathroom counter, but to keep my hair in place, maintaining a natural look, without causing buildup or dryness…this is my one and only, go-to spray! (Target, $17.99)

There you have it–the story of the redhead, the disaster and the extensions. Although I am sad that I had to “buy” myself long hair again, I have to say, at the present time, I couldn’t be happier with my decision. It’s an investment, no doubt. An investment in yourself. But just like a house is an investment, you do what you need to do to keep it looking its best. And if you do?…it will hold its value for a long, long time. Which is exactly what I plan to do with my “new” accessory!

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Can You Create An Outfit Based On ONE Accessory?

9 Oct

Great rings, great accessories!

Great rings, great accessories!

Accessories are a necessity–HUGE necessity–in any outfit. Sometimes they accentuate, sometimes they are attention getters, sometimes they are just there to lend support.

With my not so usual job at the tattoo shop, my fashion choices are my own (with mild limits). One thing that I do have free reign on is my choice of accessories. Big YEAY for that!!!

Last night, I found an epic ring on a website called Invaluable.com . This site has so many cool, classic, modern, antique, epic pieces. And I found this awesome ring amongst their awesome ring collection that is so me! It’s black (my color), sterling silver, and has a little bit of goth appeal… when it’s put in the right collection!! So what did I put with this great ring? Take a look:

Great rings, great accessories!

Great rings, great accessories!

Edgy outfit with a lot of class!

Pieces everyone can wear!

So I challenge you to take a look at your jewelry box and accessories drawer tomorrow first…BEFORE you pick out your outfit. You may find a piece in there that is hidden that needs the right “company” of pieces around it to show off its awesome & unique flair!

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Must-Have Necessities, Will Travel…

25 Sep

imageI am writing this blogpost on vacation in a cozy cabin lakeside at my favorite spot in the Adirondacks of Upstate New York along Lake George. It’s kind of off-season right now, but the leaves are just beginning to change color, there are no crowds, nights are cool by the bonfire, and marshmallows are being toasted by the bag. Fashion isn’t (totally) an issue, shoes can be casual and comfortable, and tops… well, tops just have to match and be seasonably chic. Unless you plan on staying secluded with your family the entire vacation, with no public interaction, it’s totally justifiably to wear sweats the whole time. Of course, they can certainly be Juicy Couture sweats, no doubt. You are on vacation–you’re not dead.

This vacation, I didn’t write a “What To Pack” list. That was huge for me. I usually begin planning weeks in advance. Maybe that is because this wasn’t a luxury type vacation and more of a kick back and relax vacation. I packed three styles of jeans (boot cut, skinny and capris), a few edgy short sleeve shirts, a some long sleeve shirts, a hoodie or two, flats, sneakers, sandals, and pretty much? That’s it. But even on vacation, as low key as you want to be, there are some things that you should not forget in your glamour & beauty routine. There are necessities no one should slack on. Take note: these “must haves” must be packed:

imageFacial Sunscreen – If you are choosing to bypass makeup in general during your time away, don’t forget to throw at least a light layer of multipurpose sunscreen designed for your face. It doesn’t matter where you go, what you do. There will be sun and that causes aging, at least prevent that. Not to mention, you don’t want to invite cancer-causing rays to get through. Find one that is gentle enough to use under the eyes as well. And while you’re thinking of it, get an SPF lip balm too. Fight those harmful rays as much as possible. Sassy likes: Perfectly Posh’s My Hero 30+ SPF Facial Sunscreen

imageGentle Face Cleanser – Even if your day only consists of reading a book in a lounge chair on the edge of the beach, your skin is still going to regenerate skin cells daily and you are going to need get rid of them each day. You don’t need anything funky, fancy, or even sink required. A good cleansing wipe before bed can be convenient to use at anytime–especially nighttime–and are convenient to pack too. Wipes actually do two things: they cleanse with a non-rinse formula and they gently exfoliate with the fabric of the cloth. Depending on your skin type (oily, blemishes, dry, aging, sensitive) you may want to look for something that matches your needs. Otherwise, a general all-purpose wipe will be fine for all types to cleanse and exfoliate. Sassy likes: Simple’s Cleansing Facial Wipes

imageBody Lotion – Yeah, some hotels give you all those little bottles of “stuff” for hair, body, mouthwash and lotion. If you can use anything?–Knock yourself out. But my body can get dry in different air, exposed to air and/or sun, using a pool or jacuzzi, or even just a difference in temperatures. This is where you would be best off getting a travel jar or bottle and filling it with a lotion that you can use and works well with your skin. Remember, try not to use perfumed lotions since the alcohol can be drying. Something rich but not sticky is a perfect (and with a light natural scent) can be a nice treat for your skin before bed after a busy day. Sassy likes: HEMPZ treats’ Vanilla Creme Brulee Delicious Body Lotion

imageimageHair Accessories – Okay, Sassy confession: I got hair extensions last week. I will be writing a blogpost soon about extensions do’s and dont’s soon enough, but for now, let’s just think of the hair you have now. Days will be windy, skies can get rainy, hair can get unruly. It’s not a bad idea to have a few accessories like a headband, a big jaw clip, maybe a soft ponytail holder, even a few stylish clips to keep your looks casual yet classy. Don’t let the weather get the best of your locks. A good conditioning spritz before you “style” will keep them hydrated while they’re in control. Sassy likes: Scünci’s Effortless Beauty Slide Clips & it’s a 10’s Miracle Leave-In Plus Keratin.

imageKick Ass Sneakers – Okay, I know fashion may not be on your mind this week, but the fact it you will be socializing some local landmarks, window shopping, some walking and sightseeing and-like me-shopping, you need something to be walking in. Everyone has a favorite footwear, and I support that 100%. Comfort supersedes style when shopping. However, if you can combine BOTH? You. Rock! I was lucky enough to find an epic pair or high-tops that scream style wherever I go. And I can walk all day in them and never have an issue. Find a comfortable pair or shoes or two or three and give them a vacation too! Sassy likes: Converse Chuck Taylor’s High Tops black with star design

So, in your frenzy to pack the bag that you need for vacation, do not forget these important items. I would really say in regards to your beauty & fashion, these items will be critical in keeping you looking young while still getting the rest and relaxation you need that is necessary to keep you feeling young as well. Don’t let yourself “go” while you get away. But trust me, it is important for mind, body and soul!

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A little glitzy girly tomorrow: epic Jane Norman top, skinny jeans, leather wrapped flats with bold, edgy accessories. So comfortable yet so styling!

17 Sep
A little glitzy girly tomorrow: epic Jane Norman top, skinny jeans, leather wrapped flats with bold, edgy accessories. So comfortable yet so styling!

Jane Norman white t shirt
$32 – janenorman.co.uk

Ballet flat
nordstromrack.com

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This fall outfit brings in a thumb hole white top, straight leg jeans and silver Chucks. Add a bit of bad with a cropped leather jacket, an edgy purse and some deep fall makeup colors. HAWT!

12 Sep
This fall outfit brings in a thumb hole white top, straight leg jeans and silver Chucks. Add a bit of bad with a cropped leather jacket, an edgy purse and some deep fall makeup colors. HAWT!

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