Risque Chic

2008-04-11T11:50:00.001-07:00

The Classic Black Blazer

2008-03-16T19:33:00.000-07:00

Now here's something we can all get behind! Ah, the classic black blazer. I picked this one as an example because I like the way it accents the waist with the one button. The effect is sleek and slimming, yet is feminine the way it shows off your curves. Remember in the 80's how boxy we all looked? Yuk...what were we thinking?!
Viva the new millennium!

I'm in the mood for trendy!

2008-02-28T11:33:00.000-08:00

Here we are in the middle of Tim Gunn's top 10 essentials and I'm busting out with the fun stuff: One trendy item under $20! Yay!

Maybe it's the sunshine today or the fact that I feel really good today that I'm in such a trendy mood! When I'm lighthearted and feeling the urge to splurge WetSeal is a fun place to indulge. And such a sale! Dresses for $16.50?! Come on! This is sheer fun and it won't break the bank. Enjoy!

The Day Dress by BCBG

2008-02-24T13:14:00.001-08:00

There is an old expression to describe mediocrity..."Run of the mill".
When a factory produces fabric in bulk, it is used in many ways to create many things. They literally run the machines to create the fabric. While it may be nice, it's not exactly special.

What I love about BCBC as a company is that they produce fabrics with colors and patterns that are distinctly *not* run of the mill.

This little dress is a great example of #4, the day dress. The colors are so great! It can be worn with a short denim jacket if it's a little chilly, and some cute flats would make a really cute outfit to run around town, go to lunch or what the heck, go shopping!

Thanks BCBG...love ya!

The Classic Dress Pant

2008-02-23T23:21:00.000-08:00

The classic dress pant. Yay! We can't wear our sweats EVERY day, no matter how cold it is outside. Sometimes a girl just has to put her big girl pants and act like a woman! What better way to act the part than to suit up and show up in these beautiful black dress pants made by Joe's Jeans?

Okay, so confession time. These are not *true* dress pants (I know you fabulous ladies took one look and knew that). ;) The reason I picked these is because in my neck of the woods, California, a black denim, if it's a good quality can be considered "dress". Also, I don't work in an office where a formal dress code has to be considered, so there's that.

What I love about these particular jeans is, first and foremost, they are stretch denim. Waaaay more comfortable than regular denim pants. Secondly, for my body type, the pockets sit slightly lower, giving my bum a more rounded appearance. Woo hoo! Joe's jeans are also a good quality pant. I have some that have taken a beating and they still look as fresh as the day I bought 'em. It's all about the quality!

The Basic Black Dress

2008-02-22T19:12:00.000-08:00

Counting down, we have #2 of the 10 essentials list. The basic black dress! I'm sure you already have one. What fashionista worth her stilettos doesn't? However I must point out why this one is so great. This particular one is done in one of the most universally flattering styles to just about every body type: the wrap dress. Big hips? No problem, black is very slimming and the length can be varied. No boobs? No problem, a camisol can be worn under it. Dress it up with heals or wear it with flats and a cardigan for a more casual look. Viola...instant fabulous!

The Classic White Shirt

2008-02-20T21:48:00.000-08:00

Every style expert says you must have "The Ten Essentials" in your wardrobe. So, over the next ten days I'll list an example of each one. Let me rephrase...a risque chic example!

To kick off the top ten list, I'm starting with the classic white tailored shirt. This particular one caught my eye on "The Oprah Winfrey Show". It's by Brooks Brothers, and get this: It's iron free. That's right girls. Put your iron away! According to fashion editor Stacy Wallace-Albert, this tailored white shirt came *straight* out of the DRYER....and looked as a new $100 bill. I totally want one now! (Oprah tends to have that effect on me.)

A New Earth, Eckhart Tolle

2008-02-19T21:42:00.000-08:00

A first for me here...a book recommendation! Beauty comes from the inside out, don't you think?
How many times have you thought, "Wow, that guy is handsome!" but after he speaks, you think maybe it's time to back away slowly.

I think it works the other way too. Picture this: average Joe who knows who he is, who has purpose and confidence...that's just damn sexy! Right girls?! Well, don't think men don't view us the same way.

This book is one of those books that truly brings out the best in you. I'm just about done and I have to say, it's been a long time since I've been this affected. My mind is on fire with thoughts that are bringing clarity. I can honestly say I feel happier and I know it shows.

So I ask you: If you're glowing from the inside, does it really matter what you wear on the outside? Yes! It does! Let's not get carried away...but read the book. It's super fabulous.

Free Shipping this weekend on Steve Madden Shoes!

2008-02-15T14:18:00.000-08:00

Yay! Here's just a taste of some of hi s yummy shoes.

Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Batignolles Verticle

2008-02-12T13:13:00.000-08:00

Guess who loves Louis Vuitton? I do! That's me last year after I bought a Louis Vuitton Monogram Canvas Batignolles Verticle. Whew..that's a mouth full! It's my favorite bag by a long stretch. Not to diminish my love for the little Vive Cite PM that I'm wearing. LOVE that little bad with the matching wallet. The thing about Louis Vuitton is the unparalleled quality. Louis Vuitton also has a long history of beautiful design and a reputation to match. In my humble opinion, there's nothing finer than an LV bag.

Some girls like to spend $50 per bag and they must have 30 bags...at least! For that much cash, I'd rather have one REALLY special bag that could be worn with ANYTHING than a bunch of cheap bags. I think the bag a woman chooses to carry says a lot about her. Don't you? So why not go for something that makes you feel like the special person you are? Go for it!

Crisscross Jimmy Choo Sandals

2008-02-12T11:34:00.000-08:00

You can never go wrong buying quality. It's been my experience that when I buy quality, I actually spend *less* in the long run. Sounds good right? Well that's my justification for these amazing Jimmy Choo heels. Aren't they absolutely gorgeous?!

I'm seriously thinking of wearing these for Vanentine's Day...that and nothing else. That way my husband will be happy and I will be happy. ;)

Alison Raffaele Lipskins

2008-02-06T21:14:00.000-08:00

Alison Raffaele Lipskins

What's more classic for Valentine's Day than red lipstick? Um...nothing! Marilyn Monroe, Gwen Stefani, Madonna...they all immortalized the classic look of red lips.

You know the look. Simple black liquid eye liner, curled eye lashes bathed in black mascara above beautiful, plump, shimmery red lips. Muuuah!

Red is the color of love ladies. This perfect shade of classic red will get your man's heart pumpin on Valentine's Day. Trust me on this one. ;)

Palapa Wedge by Steve Madden

2008-02-06T20:27:00.000-08:00

PALAPA BRN LEATHER

Maybe it's because it was just Ground Hog's Day, and we're looking at six more weeks of winter that I feel the need to rebel and shop for wedges already. I mean really, what does a ground hog know about shoes anyway?

Last season I found the cutest pair of wedges in black with a very similar basket type weave on the wedge. I LOVE those shoes! Not just because I get tons of compliments on them, but because they are unique. There are a lot of wedge heels out there that are simple, but reality is, they can be a little boring. Why not kick up your basket weave wedge for a little sassy fun? These pretty things are from Steve Madden...king of sassy!

Karma Body Soap by Lush

2008-02-03T18:32:00.000-08:00

After a stressful day, there's no better feeling than standing under a hot shower with some Karma to wash it all away.

This amazing soap is sooooo yummy. Karma Handmade Soap
is an invigorating blend of orange citrus, a touch of patchouli and lemon grass. You want a soap to be cleansing, of course, but you also want it to leave your skin feeling smooth and moist. This one has it all.

If you ever get into a Lush store, you'll see these giant beautiful round cakes of soaps.

OPI Soft and Thin Nail Polish

2008-01-31T16:20:00.000-08:00

For years I had acrylic nails and I loved them. Then I became a mother and decided it was too time consuming and expensive. The problem is, my nails tend to be thin and would often split.

So far the ONLY thing that has kept my nails long and hard is this OPI Soft & Thin. This one little bottle would last me a few months, saving me a ton of money and time. What more could you want? You know what else is great? The fact that this goes on clear. No need to put it on perfectly! Goes down great as a base coat too. Enjoy!

Wicked Temptations Black Corset

2008-01-29T21:48:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is coming up...and I know who's going to be happy. ;)

Wicked Temptations has a HUGE selection of lingerie, clothes, shoes and a few extra naughty things to spice up your holiday. The range of styles are from tame to totally thrilling. The prices are great and so is the customer service. Yay Valentines Day!

Anastasia Brow Express Palate

2008-01-25T10:05:00.001-08:00

Anyone remember Oprah's "It's all about the eyebrow" phase? I do..I remember how mad her make up guy was. Hehe!

She has a point though. I've seen so many make over shows where women who don't have their eyebrows done, look so good after. It's amazing how the eyebrow when properly done, can balance out the face and open up the eyes.

This cool little eyebrow set makes the whole process fool proof. On the Oprah show, Anastasia must have made over 3 or 4 women's eye brows and the results were amazing!

Personally, I'm headed over to Nordstrom's today to pick up this kit. I'll have to post pictures when I'm done!

e.l.f. Cosmetics

2008-01-22T18:54:00.000-08:00

Can you believe this deal from e.l.f. cosmetics?! I'm drooling over this complete package of pretty products. Seriously, a whole new set of brushes, blushes, eye liner and shadow and so much more. Looks like there might even be some concealers and face powers to share with friends. Yee haw! You'd get to look great *and* be a fun friend!

Iolani Cap Sleeve Print Dress

2008-01-21T10:03:00.000-08:00

Now when I think about "Risque Chic" style, this little dress by Iolani says it all. It's cute, it's sexy and it's stylish. I love the look of black and white for any season. This dress, with the deep v-neck, wide belt and empire waist is very flattering for most body types...especially mine! Since it is 100% silk, it will not only feel good to the touch but it will flow when you walk. All a girl needs now is a fan to blow her hair around!

Tall Black Boots

2008-01-18T16:45:00.001-08:00

Everywhere you look this season, you'll see the tall black boot. I love the look of the boots with jeans tucked inside with maybe a tailored coat or sweater. Absolutely fabulous. You know what else looks really hot with the tall leather boots? A nice dress with patterned nylons...wow, that looks HOT! There was a woman on the Oprah show today with the boots and dress and I just couldn't get over how great she looked. (yeah, despite the topic, poor girl, but that's not the point)

Anyway....I especially like these because #1 they are on sale..yay! And #2 the classic look. They aren't too pointy, which KILL my feet, and they'll stay in style beyond this season. So enjoy girls!

Pluey Rainboots

2008-01-16T18:01:00.000-08:00

It's January and I'm freezing! It's been so wet and stormy here, but these darling Pluey Rainboots are just the thing to add a little charm to a dreary day.

These rainboots are super cute! It has been so rainy lately, duh it's winter. But here in California, it's not that common. When it does rain, I hate to feel frumpy. What better to feel so much cuter than a great pair of comfortable, but darling rain boots like these made by Pluey! I'm a dog lover and I have a black wool pea coat, so I nominate these doggie Pluey's as the favorite. Enjoy!

Sense Skin Care by Usana

2008-01-15T13:58:00.000-08:00

About two years ago, my friend and neighbor Monica Ulrich invited me to a girl's facial party. What fun! This is where I first tried the Sense Skin Care line by Usana. All of the Sense products contain all natural ingredients and are free of artificial preservatives. They even come in specially designed containers that prevent bacterial contamination.

The 3-step system is so good, even my husband uses it. It smells soooo good. It reminds me of when I walk into a really fancy spa, like Burke Williams and I'm overcome by the heavenly smells of eucalyptus, mint and citrus.

Anyway, I digress...the point is this stuff makes my skin feel so soft and fresh. Products can be ordered regularly through the Monica's website, and they're delivered directly to your home. Sometimes it's just such a pleasure to skip the mall for beauty products!

no!no! Hair Removal System

2008-01-14T15:45:00.000-08:00

You know, for a long time, I've been unsatisfied with the current methods of hair removal. Razors don't shave close enough and have to be used daily. Yuck. It's a short term solution...and who wants to do it every day?!

The other option? Waxing. Waxing can be done at home and it lasts longer but it's such a pain. Literally. I give it a double yuck..one yuck for the pain and one for the gross mess. A girlfriend of mine goes to a salon for the "brazilion wax". It's expensive not to mention undignified. The first time I heard of it, I thought, "They do what?! To my where?!" Um, no thank you. I'll pass on that pain and embarrassment. Shoot, I'm not even that modest, but I figured there had to be a better way, and here it is!
The no!no! hair removal system uses exciting new technology called Thermicon™ which transfers a pulse of heat to the hair follicle, destroying it. It's safe, painless and over time, it will eliminate the need for regular hair removal. There are no in-grown hairs or pimples like with waxing. Nice! Keep in mind, that like any hair removal system, it takes time and dedication to achieve the desired results. Over time, you will have clean, smooth, stubble free skin. Yes!

Gucci Handbag

2008-01-13T19:59:00.000-08:00

Gucci Handbags for 33% off!

Normally, I'm a loyal to Louis Vuitton to a fault, but I can't resist the look of this Gucci Handbag!
This stylish little bag is perfect with the basic black trench coat. Made from the highest quality canvas & leather Gucci is famous for, you know this classic bag will last forever. It has a zipper pocket inside and a cell phone pocket. Perfect! And can you believe it's on SALE?! It's a Gucci for heaven's sake!

Don't you think this would go perfect with those Steve Madden "Brytni" shoes? Oooooo...too cute!

Cashmere V-Neck Sweater

2008-01-11T19:44:00.000-08:00

Every grown woman and stylish girl, should have at least one cashmere sweater, dontcha think!? Check out this Women's Cashmere V-Neck Sweater.

It's absolutely luxurious and a must for this time of year. It's really soft against your skin, not to mention comfortable and warm. The V-neck is a classic design that won't go out of style, so you can feel good about spending the money on something really nice. I'm a firm believer in quality. When you buy quality, it ends up being less expensive in the long run. Hey, if nothing else, I'm a bargain shopper and I can totally justify a beautiful cashmere sweater. Go for it!