Thursday 29 November 2012

Accessorizing is all the rage. Do you know how to do it right?

We've seen it everywhere, catwalks, shops, streets... women everywhere wearing big earrings, big necklaces, headbands, etc., statement accessories that make a simple outfit pop. The secret is to stick with a simple look and upgrade it with your accessories. Here you have some examples of how to use big pieces of jewellery without looking like a Christmas tree. Have fun! 
Blazer, top, pants & shoes, Mango. Ring & bag, Parfois. Earrings, Blanco. Necklace, swellcaroline.com
Dress & shoes, Mango. Earrings, Blanco. Clutch, Accessorize. 
Dress, celebboutique.com. Shoes, Blanco. Bag, Parfois. Necklace, Uterque. Earrings, Accessorize. Watch, Michael Kors

Sweat t-shirt, Dorothy Perkins. Jeans, Mango. Boots, Anna Dello Russo for H&M, Necklace & bag, Asos. Earrings, Blanco.


Monday 26 November 2012

Are you afraid of mixing styles? Rule # 11: Be brave!

We love so many different styles, don’t we? Sporty, classic, rock, etc. and, if we love so many different pieces from each of those styles, why not mix and match them? Mixing styles is a big trend and it's a way to step out of the box, to make a big entrance in a party! It’s also a great way to be the centre of attention wherever you go. Don't be afraid of mixing, be brave! Here are some examples of how to mix styles but remember, don't go too far with your bold pieces. You don't want to look like you’re in fancy dress!

Tshirt, Zara. Skirt & Blazer, Mango. Shoes, Topshop. Bowling Bag & Necklace, Blanco. 

Dress, Mango. Biker Jacket & Shoes, Topshop. Clutch, celebboutique.com. Bracelet, Parfois. 

Dress, Denim Jacket & Boots, Mango. Bag, Aldo. Necklace, Parfois.

Dress, Coat & Shoes, Mango. Clutch, Dorothy Perkins. 

Dress, Denim Jacket & Boots, Mango. Necklace, Blanco. 

Sweat, Dorothy Perkins. Leggings, MMM for H&M. Coat, Mango. Shoes & Necklace, Blanco. Bag, Parfois. 

Saturday 24 November 2012

Ready to hit the town in style tonight?

Saturday night is approaching fast. It's the night to see but, more importantly, to be seen. Make sure you're the one getting all the attention with the stylish and SEXY look.

Top, Topshop, Skirt & Coat, Mango. Heels & Clutch, Selfridges. Necklace & Bangles, H&M. 

Friday 23 November 2012

Going anywhere this weekend? Tips to help you with your packing.

After a hard week of work - meetings, rushing around, early mornings and late nights, the weekend is here and nothing could be more exciting than a little getaway with the one you love. But sometimes packing can be a nightmare, "what should I wear?". Most of the time we end up taking clothes we never wear, so here are some tips for a 1-night getaway to help you pack. For example, wear just 1 pair of jeans, the ones you are going to travel in you can also wear the day you come back. The same goes for shoes. You can wear the same pair of boots for the whole trip and only one pair of heels in case you’re going out for a nice dinner. You don't need to pack a lot of make-up. Keep it simple. Paint your nails with a colour that goes with all the clothes you’re taking. To change a simple look into a statement, take one of your ‘big’ accessories. It will make a huge difference! These picture will inspire you! Enjoy the weekend, it's time to relax. 

Jeans & Boots, Blanco. Top & Cardigan, Mango. Handbag & Trolley, Parfois. Necklace & Ring, Uterque. 
                 
Pants, Top & Cuff, Mango. Jacket & Shoes, Topshop. Bag, Parfois.  

Jeans & Boots, Blanco. Top & Cardigan, Mango. Hat, Zara. Necklace, Uterque. 

Thursday 22 November 2012

Rule # 10: Know your body type.

It's important to know and understand what looks good on your body. This implies knowing your body and what pieces can enhance or hide certain things. There are 6 primary body types: Triangle, Inverted Triangle, Rectangle, Hourglass, Diamond, and Oval. These types are defined by your body's fat deposits above, below, and around the waist. 

The Diamond and Oval body shape can both be referred to as the apple body shape. If you have the apple body shape, your waist is undefined and you carry most of your weight around your midsection. The difference between the two is that the diamond body shape is defined by a high stomach and the Oval body type can have a full bottom and thighs. Creating the illusion of a longer, leaner torso by drawing attention upwards is the key for this body type (draw attention away from the midsection).  

The Rectangle body shape has been referred to as a relatively boyish build, but not all women have trademark flat chest that goes with it. The Rectangle shape visually displays a balanced width between shoulders and hips, both of which can be full. However, your waist may be slightly defined, if there is any definition at all. This body shape can look shorter and heavier than you actually are. Arms and legs are typically slender. You'll want to wear pieces that cinch in at the waist and add more curves to your figure. 

The Triangle body type has a larger a lower body with a smaller upper body. Shoulders are generally narrower than the waist, hips and thighs. It's all about drawing attention away from your problem areas. Therefore we need to draw the eyes up. Use bright tops, larger collars, lapels, and sleeves. 

The Inverted Triangle is the exact opposite to the Triangle. A full bust line with a defined waist and narrow hips. This build is characterized by broad shoulders and is often associated with athletes. These are the people we refer to as "top heavy". To balance this out, try bright coloured or patterned fabrics. Full skirts will add more body below the waist. Keep the top simple and focus on the bottom. 

The Hourglass is the ideal figure. It's associated with a perfectly proportionate bust line and hips and a well-defined waist with fat deposits in equal proportions above and below your waist. This is considered ideal because it is recognized as the sexiest of all body types. You don’t want to drown this in baggy clothing. A lot of women lose weight and attain this figure but they still wear the same clothes they had before the weight loss. Ladies, if you are an hourglass, please show it off!! Wear belts to emphasize your waist and wide-legged jeans to balance out your breasts and V-neck or cowl neck tees to show some cleavage - not necessarily all at once! 





Wednesday 21 November 2012

Back to Black. Rule # 9: How to upgrade a LBD (Little Black Dress)

Black is always "in". You can't go wrong with a black outfit and it can work for you from day to night, just by adding some sparkle. Black makes you look slimmer and a LBD (little black dress) is a MUST in every woman's wardrobe. Here are some examples of how to make an LBD pop using accessories. Escape the monotonous and be bold!

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Dress & Bag, Blanco. Shoe, Bershka. Necklace, swellcaroline.com. Earrings, modaoperandi.com
Dress, Necklace & Earrings, Blanco. Shoes, Zara. Bag, Parfois. 

Dress, celebboutique.com. Shoes, Zara. Bag, Parfois. Necklace, Earrings & Cuff, Blanco. 

Tuesday 20 November 2012

Rule # 8: How to use the same suit for day and night time.

How many of you have suits in your wardrobe you only ever wear for work or for a special occasion? Lots I guess. Here you have an example of how to upgrade a work suit into a glam outfit and back again. You only need to step out of the box and add or take away some sparkle...

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Suit & Bow Crepe Blouse, Mango. DAY: Red bag and Ring, Blanco. Wide Heel Peep Toe, Zara. Pearls, Uterque. Watch Lorus. NIGHT: Lypsy Floral Bead Detail Top, Lipsyc.co.uk. Clutch, H&M. Bracelet & Earings, Asos. Leopard print peep toe, Selfridges. 

Monday 19 November 2012

Back to work, it's Monday!

The weekend is gone and today starts another working week. Either you are a girl who works in a office or a girl who works in a more casual setting here there are a few looks who might help you out.

Have a great week and remember, don't forget to look fab!

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Top & Jeans, Blanco. Cardigan, Mango. Boots, Topshop. Bag, Parfois, Gloves, Watch & Belt, Uterque

Jacket, T-shirt & Jeans, Mango. Scarve, Zara. Boots, Blanco. Bag, Belt, Necklace, Bracelet & Sunglasses, Parfois. 
Blazer, Topshop. Shirt & Shoes, Mango. Skirt celebboutique.com. Bag, Parfois. Earrings, Asos. Ring, Bracelet & Watch, Uterque. 
Suit and blouse, Mango. Bag, Parfois. Shoes, Zara. Necklace, Asos. Ring, Michael Kors. Earrings, Uterque. Bracelet, Mango. 
Shirt, Pants & Jacket, Mango. Shoes, Topshop. Bag, Necklace & Ring, Uterque. 


Leather Dress & Shoes, Topshop. Leather Jacket & Bracelet, Mango. Earrings, Net-a-porter. Bag, Valentino.



Saturday 17 November 2012

Thinking about going out today? Enjoy the weekend!

The weekend is here and it looks like is not going to be a sunny one. You have 2 options, stay at home and get yourself home-beauty-treatment so you'll look fantastic later tonight or go out and maybe start your Christmas shopping or meet your friends for a coffee and a bit of gossip.
Whatever your decide here are 4 looks: 2 that can inspire you to look pretty during the day and 2 to look amazing later tonight.

Have a great weekend!

Necklace & Bag, Asos. Jeans, T-shirt, Jacket & Bracelet,  Mango. Scarve, Jigsaw. Boots, Blanco. Sunglasses, RayBan.  Umbrella, Muji. 
Leggings, H&M. Cardigan, T-shirt & Hat, Mango. Biker boots & Bag, Blanco. Earrings, Vivienne Westwood. 
Sequin skater skirt & Shoes, Topshop. Shirt & Clutch, Blanco. Faux Fur Jacket, Leather Belt & Metallic Cuff, Mango. Earrings, Lara Bohinc. Ring, Swarovski.
Top, Blanco. Boyfriend Jeans, Pull & Bear. Necklace, Ring, Cuff, Coat & Shoes, Mango. Clutch, Lulu Guinness. 

Thursday 15 November 2012

Christmas is all around… are you ready? Rule # 7: dress properly for the occasion.


Christmas is all around and you might be thinking of what to wear for you annual office party or a night out with your best friends. Well, if that’s the case, here are some fab looks to make you the belle of the ball and the envy of your colleagues and friends.

Use them as your inspiration!

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Dress, Shoes & Ombre Fringe Cape, Topshop. Clutch, Mango. Earrings, Cross Cuff & Lipsy Diamante Strech Head Band, Asos. 

Trousers, Faux Fur Coat, Clutch & Shoes, Topshop. Shirt & Bracelet, Mango. 

Dress, Coat, Clutch & Shoes, Topshop. Tiara, Debenhams.

V Neck Pencil Dress, Feather Capelet & Shoes, Topshop. Ring & Clutch, Vivienne Westwood. Bracelet, McQueen. Pegasus Earrings, Selfridges

Trousers, Shoes & Clutch, Topshop. Coat & Sequins Top, Mango. Earrings, Selfridges. Bracelet, Marc Jacobs. Ring, Vivienne Westwood.


Tuesday 13 November 2012

BALLGOWNS

Last weekend I went to the Victoria & Albert museum in London and I visited the Ballgowns Exhibition under the name "Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950".
From debutantes and royalty to charity balls and the red carpet, Ballgowns: British Glamour Since 1950 charts 60 years of stylish evening wear. The exhibition highlights the sytles, silhouettes and colours that have been perennial favourites for many years.

Here you have some pictures.

Catherine Walker's cream silk evening dress and bolero, 1989. Worn by Diana Princess of Wales

Alexander McQueen gown worn by Daphne Guinness, 2011

Silk satin and beaded "Rumina" gown by Erdem, 2008

Atsuko Kudo gown worm by Georgina Frost with dresses by Hardy Amies and Worh of London
Exhibition

Exhibition

Pictures taken from "The Style Column"

Thursday 8 November 2012

Beauty comes from the inside. Rule # 6: Take care of your skin

As all of you know beauty comes from the inside. There's nothing more important than being healthy. You don't have to be on a diet for life but eating healthy food will make you look better and live longer. But we know it takes more than just this, don’t we? There are some tricks you should know to make your skin look younger, flawless, healthier. In another post I wrote about Atelier Room B and its founder, Sandra Almeida. She teaches makeup classes and gives workshops. She has great experience in this business and has worked for important makeup companies and in fashion weeks around the world. So who better than her to give us some tips about how to have a healthy skin and look even better? I asked her some questions and here are her answers.


1. What are the basics for keeping your skin healthy?

Healthy, well cared for skin immediately makes you look younger.
People often still believe that for youthful and energetic skin you need to spend a lot of money and a lot of time in the morning. But the crisis had led brands to invest in the quality of their products and to make them easier to use, and these days you even can find very good products at the local supermarket.
The first step is to know what your skin type is.
The second step is to work out how much time you have in the morning for your skincare and make-up routine.
The third step is to use your products every day, morning and night without fail!
You don’t need a lot of products, but there are a few essentials to your skincare routine:
- Remove your make-up and clean your skin every morning and every night.
- Apply eye cream morning and night.
- Moisturise your face morning and night.
- Exfoliate once a week.

2. Is it important to use that right products for our skin type? Why?

It’s very important, because every skin type has specific needs and the right products will meet those needs.

3. How can we find out our skin type?

The best way is to go to a beauty counter in a department or specialist store. If you live in Lisbon, you could try El Corte Ingles because it has specialists for every brand.
Even so, it’s often difficult to get exactly the service we want, so you could also have your skin analysed at the Atelier. Make an appointment and you will leave with accurate information about your skin type and a list of the right products for you.

4. There are people who only use a daily exfoliant and a moisturising cream. Is this enough or is it also important to have a full facial from time to time?

Cleaning your skin will not solve all its problems if you don’t combine it with daily maintenance, but it is also important to have a full facial twice a year. I always recommend you do this at the end of the winter and then again at the end of the summer.
Clarins is highly recommended, as are El Corte Ingles in Lisbon or Gaia. They are good value for money and the products and service are excellent too!

5. Make-up. Basic products and essentials. The ‘must haves’ for any woman.

The basic products for ideal make-up depend on your individual style, but I always like to recommend the basic of basics that always look good with any outfit and eye or hair colour.
This is your everyday survival kit:
- Foundation, concealer and powder, because smooth and flawless skin will make any colour pop.
- A palate of neutral colours in tones of brown to honey
- Mascara
- Bronzing powder for blush
- Neutral or coloured lip moisturiser
- A natural colour lipstick

Sandra Almeida - Work @ Atelier Styling Project
Sandra Almeida - Work @ Atelier Styling Project
Sandra Almeida







Wednesday 7 November 2012

Here comes the Winter! Rule # 5: Get yourself a great coat. You deserve it!


Temperatures are dropping, days are shorter and nights are longer. Winter is just around the corner and you’re going to need something in your wardrobe to last the whole season and protect you from winter’s chills. It's about time you got yourself a great coat. If you are a woman with a classic style, the choice is simple: a trench coat in a classic colour such as brown, camel or black... but if you are a bold woman who wants to make a statement, go for a bold coat. Here are some options with a range of prices from the affordable to the expensive. Enjoy!

TOPSHOP
ZARA

MANGO

H&M

MIU MIU
MANGO

ZARA

ZARA

ZARA

BURBERRY LONDON
MANGO

CHLOƉ
MANGO

J. CREW (NET-A-PORTER)

MIU MIU

MANGO
LANVIN
TOPSHOP

MANGO

ZARA
STELLA MCCARTNEY
MAISON MARTIM MARGIELA for H&M - In shops from November 15.