Minggu, 20 Maret 2011

Today's Obsessions

Today's Obsessions


8 Pleated Pieces of Clothing …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 12:01 PM PDT

8 Pleated Pieces of Clothing …

Pleats are one of the biggest trends to hit the catwalks lately. Right now you'll be able to find a vast range of items that feature pleat details. From skirts to blouses, there's bound to be something to suit your personal style. Below are just a few of my favourite pleated finds so far.

1. Halston Heritage Pleate Lamé Mini Dress

Halston Heritage Pleate Lamé Mini Dress
Price: $325.00 at net-a-porter.com
This dress will have you disco ready in no time. It's made from silver lame and features all over pleating. It's a clever reversible design, meaning you can wear it as a high neck or as a draped v-neck front. Keep it simple with sleek and simple accessories.

2. Topshop Pleat Long Sleeve Shift Dress

Topshop Pleat Long Sleeve Shift Dress
Price: $90.00 at us.topshop.com
The horizontal pleats on this dress are a nice change from more common vertical pleats. The shift dress design is very mod. The dress features sheer long sleeves and an exposed back zip. Wear it as is, or pair it with opaque tights and a blazer for a layered look. As for shoes, suede wedges or wooden platform heels would look great!

3. Richard Nicoll Shirt One Shoulder Cotton Dress

Richard Nicoll Shirt One Shoulder Cotton Dress
Price: $315.00 at net-a-porter.com
This blush dress is a modern and sophisticated design. The pleating detail on this dress comes in the form of a pleated skirt overlay. The one shoulder design is a great way to show off some summer skin. I think this dress would look great paired with nude patent accessories and silver accents.

7 Tips for Wearing Brightly Colored Tights …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 11:57 AM PDT

7 Tips for Wearing Brightly Colored Tights …

Along with leggings, bright tights are extremely popular right now. They’re vibrant, they’re warm, and they can add just the right splash to the perfect outfit. However, they are still hosiery, and thus you have to be careful of certain things when you wear them. These 7 tips for wearing brightly colored tights can help you be a total tight wearing fashionista in no time!

1. Pair them with Patterns

Bright tights look great with different patterns. For instance, a pair of red tights can look fantastic with a tartan skirt or a plaid dress. However, even polka dots, pinstripes, and wilder, crazier patterns can look fantastic with the right pair of colored tights. Don’t be afraid to experiment!

2. Layer It Up

As I’ve said before, the layered look is really in right now. Tights are just another way you can rock that particular style, especially if they’re vibrantly colored. You don’t ever want to wear anything too straight with tights, because you can look a little … well, a little too solid. If you wear too much of one color, or not enough textures, the look can go all wrong.

3. Take It to Work

Wearing bright tights to work is a great idea – and if you do it right, you don’t have to worry about overdoing it. Tights can be brightly colored without being outlandish, after all. What you can do is take a conservative suit and pair it with some colored tights. Teal or a slate grey are two great shades, for instance, and they’ll also look professional no matter once.

7 Ways to Add Ikat to Your Wardrobe …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 11:51 AM PDT

7 Ways to Add Ikat to Your Wardrobe …

For months, I've loved the vibrant colors and lush textures of the ikat pattern, and have found so many ways to add it to my décor, but what about my wardrobe? I told everyone who would listen how marvelous it would be to be able to find a dress or jacket or something I could wear with that same intricate ikat pattern. Then, this week, I've found some gorgeous ikat pieces I can wear… yes! Here are 7 ways to add ikat to your wardrobe… finally!

1. Ikat Breeze Tee

Ikat Breeze Tee
Price: $39.95 at anthropologie.com
Though most ikat patterns include an array of colors, this ultra-soft Lyocell tee is a creamy white with an intricate rusty orange overlay, perfect for wearing with an a-line skirt or with a pair of cargo capris in khaki. I love the tiny chest pocket, the gently twisted neckline, and the longer-than-average length.

2. Semarang Robe

Semarang Robe
Price: $29.95 at anthropologie.com
This sleek, soft polyester kimono-inspired robe by Eloise boasts a lovely ikat pattern in red, grey, and pale purple, with black accents and a tie sash. It's ideal for a lazy morning or afternoon of lounging, alone or with cotton yoga pants.

3. Liquid Rhombus Scarf

Liquid Rhombus Scarf
Price: $48.00 at anthropologie.com
Oh, soft silk! This neutral-hued scarf is long and wide enough to keep you cozy on the coolest days, measuring 41 inches long and 38 inches wide, like a pashmina. The ikat pattern is attractive and bold, ideal for adding a burst of interest to a classic trench coat and jeans.

7 Facts on Gangs …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 11:35 AM PDT

7 Facts on Gangs …

I am going to tell you right now, gangs are dangerous. In no way, shape or form are they cool. Yes, as you are reading this post, you may think that I am just an old woman trying to discourage the youth against something cool. However, I am not an old woman – chances are, I am almost the same age as you. I just think you guys and girls that are in school right now should not mistake gangs as being cool – because they are not. Sure, it may be cool to play Grand Theft Auto (I personally like the game along with Saints Row), but that does not mean I support gangs. Watching gangs in movies is also something I like doing, but again, I do not support what they are doing – it's just for entertainment purposes and it's only good when it is not real. Does this make sense? Well, right now, I am going to give you 7 facts on gangs …

7. Graffiti

To gang members, marking their territorial boundaries with graffiti is a challenge or warning to the rival gang.

6. L.A

Many of the wide-spread gangs, like the Bloods, Crips and 18th Street first started in the streets of L.A.

5. Department of Justice

The Department of Justice has estimated that there are around 30,000 gangs that have 800,000 members in them. These 30,000 gangs with 800,000 members are impacting over 2,500 communities spreading across the United States of America.

8 Reasons Why I Love Spring …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 11:13 AM PDT

8 Reasons Why I Love Spring …

Yay! Not long to go until spring officially starts! It's my favourite season, and always makes me feel more optimistic. I don't enjoy the cold weather at all! There are lots of things I love about spring, and here are just some of them.

1. Warmer Weather

I think most of us must look forward to the end of winter and the start of the warmer weather. What's not to love about it? Feeling the sun on your face, being able to get out more, and feeling more positive. Plus you can look forward to cheaper heating bills!

2. New Year

Did you know that the year used to begin on 25th March? Maybe it's a trace memory, but I always think of the year as starting with spring, not in January. It certainly makes more sense to me, as the cycle of life and growth is beginning again.

3. Flowers

I don't miss much about living in the UK, but one thing I do miss is the mass of daffodils that are so emblematic of spring. Flowers really do add beauty to the environment, and daffodils are planted everywhere in the UK. It gave me a strong feeling that warmer weather and longer days were on the way.

8 Careers Where You Can Use Your Voice …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 11:07 AM PDT

8 Careers Where You Can Use Your Voice …

Choosing a career requires figuring out what you are good at and then using your talents to the fullest. If you believe you have a strong voice either for elocution or for singing, then you need to find a career that allows you to use it. The good news is that there are quite a few to choose from. Here are 8 careers where you can use your voice.

1. Acting

If your voice is strong and you can sing as well, stage or theatre acting could be the career for you. Stage actors should be able to modulate their voice and use it to convey emotions and feelings for the whole audience to appreciate. The ability to sing is an added bonus and provides you more opportunities.

2. Advertising

A career in the production aspect of advertising is a definite possibility if you have a strong and compelling voice. Voice over roles are very much in demand in the field and production companies are constantly looking for new tones to promote their varied products.

3. Politics

Politics is a profession that requires you to compel thousands of the people to believe in you. You do this by making speeches, holding rallies and meeting your voters one to one. If you are a strong elocutionist who is able to hold easy conversations with people, then this career choice could be the one for you.

10 Small Joys I Appreciate …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 10:46 AM PDT

10 Small Joys I Appreciate …

I can think of a number of things that I’m appreciative of, but I wrote down just 10 for this list. Here is my list of 10 small joys I appreciate. Feel free to add your own. I love hearing about the little things that make people happy!

10. To come across a secret stash of chocolate that I’d forgotten about

Have you ever opened the desk drawer or a jar on the counter top to find a piece of chocolate that you’d forgotten? It rarely happens at my house, due to the large number of sweet-tooth holders living there. However, it has happened a couple of times and it is such an amazing feeling. There’s something exciting about finding that luscious piece of chocolate and savoring every bite.

9. Coming home to a clean house

This may not seem like a big deal to some people, but those who are in charge of most of the cleaning at home will understand what I mean. It’s such a good feeling to come home and not have to worry about cleaning, because it’s already been done.

8. Getting a surprise phone call from a friend I haven’t talked to in a very long time

Isn’t it always such a great feeling to hear from a friend that you’ve thought hard about calling, but just never seemed to find the time to? I sometimes feel like a turd for not actually making the call myself, but I still am thrilled to talk to my good friend!

7 Unexpected Date Night Ideas …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 10:34 AM PDT

7 Unexpected Date Night Ideas …

Why not surprise your partner with a super date night? What a great feeling it is when we realize that someone loves us enough to plan a night of romance and passion. Fast paced lifestyles often leave little time to devote to our relationships. A very astute observation oft heard is that the best thing you can give your spouse and your children is a great marriage; above all else put your marriage first. With that in mind, here are some fun date night ideas.

1. The Original Date

Photo Credit: jmvnoos in Paris

Recreate the first date but with a little added "cha-ching". Make it a complete surprise. If you take him/her away on a date without letting them in on the plan, they will have a ball and appreciate all your effort to recreate a significant life event.

2. A Date Night

Photo Credit: muslim-dating-sites.info

You can plan a great date night for right at home. After the kids go to bed, plan some candlelight moments with some chocolate covered strawberries, a little fine wine and a romantic movie… or just skip the movie!

3. A Time to Talk

Photo Credit: lauretta rosanne

Make time to talk and communicate with your life partner. Effective communication takes practice and the only way to practice is to set aside time for communicating. If you are totally swamped, write your partner a letter! Love letters are great way to reiterate your feelings to your loved one. Write a love letter and set up a date with your partner.

8 Orange and On-trend Accessories …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 10:01 AM PDT

8 Orange and On-trend Accessories …

Citrus colours are set to be big this year. They've already been seen on catwalks of various designers. Orange is probably the boldest and brightest of these colours. However, if you're a bit wary of orange coloured clothing, why not try on some orange accessories instead?

1. Marni Two Tone Woven Bangle

Marni Two Tone Woven Bangle
Price: $200.00 at net-a-porter.com
This bangle is a sure fire way to electrify your look. The clashing orange and red colours end up working really well together. This woven bangle has a textured finish and simply slips on your wrist. Pair it with whites or a printed ensemble.

2. Ally Capellino Morag Bag

Ally Capellino Morag Bag
Price: $396.25 at asos.com
The framed shape of this bag is definitely on-trend for the season. The vibrant orange colour works well against the brown leather trim. I love the retro aesthetic. Carry this bag in the hook of your elbow to really work the Mad Men-esque vibe.

3. Topshop Burnt Orange Ruched Leather Purse

Topshop Burnt Orange Ruched Leather Purse
Price: $20.00 at us.topshop.com
This purse is perfect for holding all of your most delicate possessions. I love the oversized rose gold clasps. They really are a stand out feature. The burnt orange leather is also a demure take on the bright orange trend.

8 Beatles Songs I Adore …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 09:43 AM PDT

8 Beatles Songs I Adore …

The Beatles were hands down one of the most amazing bands ever. Ever. I’m only twentysomething (haha), but I’ve liked them since birth from default. I mean, I grew up the progeny of parents who had the Magical Mystery Tour album in vinyl – in pristine condition, even though they listened to it all the time. From their first hits to their final ones, I’ve always loved the Fab Four – and here are the top 8 Beatles’ songs I adore.

1. "From Me to You"

This is from early days, when the quartet was still exceedingly poppy. I’ll confess that while I like those upbeat tunes, this is my only favorite favorite – because it’s awesome. It’s a simple little ditty, but no one ever said great songs had to be complicated.

2. "Eleanor Rigby"

Sometimes they are, though, and I think "Eleanor Rigby" falls under that category. This is one of my favorite songs in life period, although it’s also one of the most depressing songs I’ve ever heard. However, it’s a realistic kind of depressing, if you can dig it. It’s not full of drama and angst, per se, it’s subtle – and it’s got a stellar beat.

3. "Yesterday"

"Yesterday" is such a beautiful song. It makes me choke up every time I hear it. Boyz II Men covered it beautifully, but no one can really compete with the Fab Four’s choirboy voices. I listened to this during every breakup I ever went through, cried buckets, and ultimately clawed my way out of it. Thanks Beatles!

7 Tips to Shape Your Brows Like a Pro …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 09:34 AM PDT

7 Tips to Shape Your Brows Like a Pro …

Perfectly groomed eyebrows are hot property these days, and as a result specialised eyebrow parlours are springing up more and more frequently worldwide. While these beauty pros are sure to give your brows the manicure of their life, the treatment isn't likely to come cheap. But ladies, don't stress: I've put together a guide to getting perfect brows and it comes straight from the salon.

1. The Professional Blueprint

Photo Credit: thebrowhouse

While it is easy to give your own brows a thorough manicure, I do recommend that you visit a salon at least once to begin with. The beauty pro will pluck your eyebrows into the correct shape and this will then act as a blueprint for you to copy afterwards.

2. Choose your Method

Photo Credit: Lodewijk van Doorn

Basically girls, if you're doing your brows at home, you can choose between either waxing or plucking. I strongly suggest you stay away from home brow wax kits and stick to tweezing – unless you're an absolute eyebrow genius that is.

3. Assemble your Kit

Photo Credit: bangbangsheshoots.blogspot.com

If you're plucking, ladies, and I'm going to assume that you are, you'll need a good sharp pair of tweezers, a white eyeliner for marking and a eyebrow brush. If you don't have one of these last, you can also use a tooth brush or a thoroughly cleaned mascara wand.

8 Beauty Regimes To Follow While Pregnant …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 09:10 AM PDT

8 Beauty Regimes To Follow While Pregnant …

I believe that pregnant women look beautiful. In many cases, their skin glows, their hair looks fuller and they barely need makeup to look pretty. However, not every pregnant woman is so fortunate. All the same, it is important to be careful in choosing your beauty regime to ensure no harm is done to your unborn baby. Here are some beauty regimes to follow while pregnant.

1. Drink Lots of Water

Photo Credit:  blushdayspa.com.au

This is one of the best beauty regimes to follow while pregnant. Water will flush out all the toxins from the body and will also help in making your skin glowing and beautiful. It will also ensure that your skin remains elastic and reduce the chances of stretch marks.

2. Rinse Your Face Frequently

Photo Credit:  sheknows.com

The face is one of the most exposed parts of the body and a lot of dust, dirt, grime and environmental pollution settles on it. Rinse your face with just water frequently to keep your face clean and your pores open. This is also highly recommended to women who are prone to acne breakouts.

3. Skin Cleansing Routine

Photo Credit: etsy.com

Create and stick to a simple skin cleansing routine. Use cleanser, toner, moisturizer and that's it. Avoid using excessive chemicals on your skin as the skin can easily absorb them into the bloodstream.

7 Tips for Buying on eBay …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 07:30 AM PDT

7 Tips for Buying on eBay …

I am completely obsessed with eBay, and have been for more than ten years. There has never been an item I've searched for, from rare books to bedding to cute shoes to fine jewelry, that I haven't been able to find on eBay for a deal. But with millions of things for sale or auction every day, it can be a little intimidating, especially if you're a new user. Here are 7 tips for buying on eBay.

1. Know what you want

While there's certainly nothing wrong with doing a little window-shopping on eBay, it's a lot easier to find something if you know what it is you're looking for. Be as specific as you want for fewer results ("Free People Skirt XS") or as broad, for more results ("Free People"). Sort your search results using certain criteria (price or location or time posted) and get to clicking!

2. Read the description carefully

I once almost bid on an EMPTY jar of my favorite French moisturizer… good thing I read the item description carefully! The item description will tell you most of the info about the item you're interested in, like sizing, condition, and brand name. Read them carefully, and if you have questions, ask the seller BEFORE you bid.

3. Check feedback

Before I bid on anything, I always check the seller's feedback rating to see what other recent buyers have to say about their honesty, shipping time, and so on. If they have a lot of negative scores, especially recently, be wary, and try to find the same item from another, more reputable seller.

7 Ways to Reduce Stress at the Office …

Posted: 20 Mar 2011 06:37 AM PDT

7 Ways to Reduce Stress at the Office …

Ah, that office! The most stressful place in the world! Some would even call it a corporate prison. You know- keep a low profile, don't drop the soap and hope you'll get to share a cell with a nice cellmate. Now, I sincerely hope this last sentence doesn't describe your working conditions and that you're happy with your job despite all the stress it often causes. Well, we won't be dealing with poor working conditions today. We are going to brush up on our interpersonal skills, figure out what stresses us out and discuss tactics that could help us get off work feeling energized for a change. So, if you often feel like the only thing you could do after work is crawl into bed, pay attention to these 7 suggestions:

1. Learn to say "No"

You can't say no to your boss, your colleagues or even clients so you end up stressing over the fact that you won't be able to get everything done on time. Plus, you're mad at yourself because you always, always, always end up being in the same position. Well, practice your diplomatic skills and learn to say no in a way that won't offend anybody. Say, "I'll look into it but I can't make any promises right now." Or, if it's your boss we're talking about, remind him of the project you're currently busy with and ask if there is a need to reschedule. That way you'll let people know that you're not a machine.

2. Surround yourself with positive people

Easier said than done, I know! There is a specific sort of people called "energy vampires" because they literally suck out all our positive energy. The ones I've met were usually either totally negative or completely self centered but I'm guessing there are more types too. Being in the presence of these people and talking to them makes us feel tired and/or depressed. So, if you want to keep your spirits up and make it through the day without feeling totally exhausted, it's best to find a person that makes you feel energized. You can't choose your colleagues but you can choose how and with whom you want to spend your lunch breaks. Plus, you always have an excuse in case an "energy vampire" attacks – you can't talk now, you have a lot of work.

7 Reasons to Like Puzzle Games …

Posted: 19 Mar 2011 12:30 PM PDT

7 Reasons to Like Puzzle Games …

I like online puzzle games the best, but I also have a good time going through the puzzle book I keep next to the bed at night. No matter how tired I am, I can always seem to squeeze in at least one puzzle before I nod off to sleep. Here are my 7 reasons to like puzzle games. Feel free to add your own reasons in the comment section if you are a big fan of puzzle games too!

7. They can be educational and fun at the same time

A fantastic assortment of online puzzle games can be found that actually teach you something while you are playing. It might be something subtle or it could be a fact that you feel the urge to pass on to others. I have yet to meet anyone who plays puzzle games because they aren't fun. Who would do that? Why torture yourself? If I'm not enjoying myself, then I don't play the game.

6. You can de-stress while playing them

For some reason, I find it very relaxing when I have to rack my brain for an answer to a puzzle game. It gives me time to think quietly on my own. I'm sort of sucked into my own little world. It's very nice!

5. They are good clean fun and usually no great skill is required

Granted, the part about not requiring skills doesn't pertain to all puzzle games. I have come across a few that I had to eventually give up on because I found it too frustrating to continue. Most online games start you off slowly so that you can build up your skill level, which makes the game easier to play. There usually isn't any violence involved in puzzle games either so the kids can be in the same room when you are playing.

Tidak ada komentar:

Posting Komentar