Merry Everything!

Happy Christmas!

Fellini Couture ~ Christmas Gown

Image courtesy of  stylefilebyclarabellekay.blogspot.com

De-Glitterize

I mentioned here that removing glitter nail polish was not exactly the best part of my fun, sparkly manicure. After some good ol' fashioned web research, the consensus is (drumroll, please...) :

Step 1: Saturate cotton with acetone or polish remover (a remover with acetone works best).
Step 2: Place the cotton on the nail and wrap each finger in aluminum foil. Press down.
Step 3: Leave on for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Pull the foil off and your glitter polish will glide off, too!

The above text was snaked directly from the Refinery29 website, which is a great beauty site that tends to always offer the best summations of info. So there you have it - A little time consuming with the 5 minute wait time, but I say wrap 'em all at once, and it will be nearly time to take them off again by the time you finish the prep work on the 10th digit.

Better than taking a granite sander to your fingers, anyway.

Image courtesy of favim.com

Sparkle & Shine... Some More.

Another ...Love, Maegan inspiration - The accent nail!

Because let me tell you : Scrubbing off glitter polish from every nail made me want to just drink the polish remover and hope for a quick demise. I'll be working on researching a better method and if I find one will be posting it here pronto!

Anyway, using the same two colors from the previous post, here's what my digits look like now :

 

I gave my ring finger on my right hand the same treatment. Fun and subtle, and definately not tough to execute. Winner!

Check out Maegan's original post about rockin' an accent nail here.

Sparkle and Shine

Don't know about you, but I seem to have a hard time not being attracted to anything coated in glitter during the holidays. So you can see why when I saw ...love Maegan's Maegan Tintari take on a neutral nail with a hint of sparkle I had to try my own hand (haaaaaa.) at it.

Glitters-but-not-too-much and goes with everything? Yes. You can see her tutorial here.
 For my own digits, I used Revlon's Sheer Cotton :

Image courtesy of tinroofnails.com

  ...And a swipe of Sally Hansen's new Gem Crush line in the color Big Money :

Image courtesy of AlisNailNews.blogspot.com

Those colors together along with Maegan's single-swipe idea turned out looking like this on my hand :

Excuse the Instagr.am quality, but you get the idea. I'm thrilled with the outcome. The glitter is uber-durable, and a chip in nude nail polish isn't very noticeable, which combined are making my life easier.
Grab the Revlon Sheer Cotton here (on sale for $3.99) or at your local drugstore for around $6. Pick up the Sally Hansen Gem Crush in Big Money (or any of the other DELICIOUS colors) in person only at this point - Not available anywhere online that I can find including the Sally Hansen website, which is currently down. Regardless, I think it will run you right around $6 too.
I plan on quite a few more spin-offs of this mani in my future... Stay tuned.

Color Run Of Gem Crush Line ('Big Money' 3rd from left)

Image courtesy of AlisNailNews.com

Holi-Daze: More Inspir-WRAP-tion

When Julie of Julie Ann Art offered up a collection of gorgeous gift wrap ideas, I knew I had to share. Some uber-simple, some tough, but all just lovely and inspirational. Click here to see!

I especially loved this one - Who hasn't run out of gift wrap for that last box and not known what to do? Voila : Find a coordinating color, a piece of ribbon, and make it look like it was meant to be!

And this collection, while falling more into the whoa-that's-complicated category, is so beautiful, isn't it?

Loving the derivations from the traditional red + green + gold. Happy wrappin'!

Holi-Daze: Wine Bottle Wrap

Instead of buying yet another wine bottle sized gift bag or slapping another ribbon around the neck, how 'bout trying something different with that hostess gift this year?

Enter : Furoshiki

There are a positively endless amount of furoshiki options out there for different sizes of gifts, but as we hit the holiday get-together circuit, what's easier than grabbing a bottle of wine and heading out the door?
Armed with nothing more than a scarf (or a large fabric scrap,or even a table linen) and a rubber band, try this:

Psssst! Square scarves are super easy to come by at your local thrift store for practically pocket change.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

"Thanksgiving" (with Karl Lagerfeld!) ~ by Danny Roberts ~ via FashionIndie.com

Holi-Daze: Hassle Free Gift Wrap

'Tis the season for trying to cut straight lines, walking around all day with tape stuck to unflattering places, and struggling with scissors and curling ribbon.

Image courtesy of cgtreasures.blogspot.com

Check out these super simple (not to mention super lovely) wrapping ideas from RealSimple. There are 21 of 'em, so you're bound to find something you can bust out in just a matter of minutes.

Sorry, tape still necessary in most cases. Keep a mirror handy.

Holi-Daze: Happy Feet

Next up on the personal holiday shopping list :

Stiletto Hardware

Image courtesy of en.paperblog.com

I don't know about you, but as much as I love the look of a sky-high heel or the perfect, slim-line ballet flat, the truth is : They suck.

Your heel throbs, the ball of your foot eventually goes [blessedly] numb from pain, your arch is screaming for support. Why do we do it, girls, why??

But we do. So here's why Stiletto Hardware is different from your average drug store gel pad : Memory foam. Yes, like the mattress. That way it offers actual * GASP * comfort to your foot, as well as offering the shock absorption qualities of the gel pads. Find them through the Stiletto Hardware website, where these gems retail for $7.95 a pair and they offer free shipping on orders over $10.

Stock up before you're teetering around those holiday cocktail soirees!

Holi-Daze: Wine Stain Remover

Kicking off a little mini-series today of sneaky tricks to utilize during this holiday crush that's fast approaching.

Under 40 shopping days until Christmas, peeps, can you handle that?

Anyway. First up on the things-you-never-knew-you-desperately-needed list :

Wine Away Red Wine Stain Remover

I've heard nothing but stellar reviews of this stuff, and although I'm not a huge wine fan I know there's no worse combo that gorgeous winter white and a glass of bordeaux. A handy spray bottle that uses no bleach and is safe around kids and pets, Wine Away can remove or fade a stain immediately... Although some toughies may need a run through the wash (or trip to the dry cleaner) to really make them disappear.

Regardless, enough of a trick to not have to carry an emergency brooch to cover a spot on your shirt or have to maniacally move furniture to cover a carpet blotch and keep the party going. Find it at Drugstore.com for $8.99 for 12 ounces, or your local Rite Aid (complete lists of stores that carry it here).

Lune Vintage: ☮

 I just think this is such a fascinating post, and so appropriate on this Veteran's Day. (Click the link below to see the full post and fantastic photos)

Lune Vintage: ☮: The peace sign. A symbol which adorns "Made in China" pre-teen backpacks, key chains, costume jewelry and sparkly pink pajamas. In tr...

ReDub the Bub

As celebration season approaches, you're bound to have some leftover sparkling something-or-other. Heed this tip from Real Simple Magazine (via CupOfJo) :

Drop a raisin into a bottle of flattening champagne (or prosecco, or whatever). Any smidge of carbon dioxide left in the liquid will glom on to the wrinkly raisin and then release in the form of tiny bubbles.

Presto! Reinvigorated bubbly.

25 Ways To Wear a Scarf

Did you know there are 25 ways to wear a scarf? This charming vid shows you how, PLUS click on any image at the end to see a video with a detailed tutorial of the one(s) that grab you. Enjoy!

Updates

Okay, I KNOW.

I haven't posted here in what, a month? Ridic. But look at this and tell me I haven't been busy! It's been a CRAZY few months of projects and planning, but I do have a few updates for you.

I mentioned CrowdTap a while back - Well, about a week ago I applied to be a part of a group to test a product. Specifically the Old Navy Style Council's test of women's outerwear. Low and behold I was chosen to participate, and received a coupon in the mail to go choose ANY PIECE of women's outerwear FOR FREE. Not only that, but they sent a coupon for me to give to 'a stylish friend' so another lucky duck could cash in as well.

It seems to good to be true, I know, but I am living proof it's legit : Went to my local Old Navy yesterday, and although the cashier looked at the coupon long and hard, once she rang it my $89.94 neon red/orange thigh-length felted coat went down to a big fat goose egg. Woooooot! So get yourself over to CrowdTap and sign up. It certainly paid off big time for me, and the cost is just answering a few (0-5) survey questions a week.

My Wool-Blend Double-Breasted coat in Rowdy Red

Image courtesy of OldNavy.com

Another update is on Missoni for Target. You all shared in my glee at scoring three pieces : A chiffon sweater, velour hoodie, and a pair of ballet flats. After a short delay (4 weeks instead of 2) I received the chiffon sweater and it is stellar. The velour hoodie met a much sadder fate - Cancelled. Target to the rescue, however, sending me a $25 gift card for my disappointment. The ballet flats are estimated to show up sometime in December... If they show at all. But hey, if Target's handing out $25, I'll take it. They can certainly pay me $50 for not getting anything.

Image courtesy of ItsAllFreeOnline.com

All for now... And, let's face facts, probably all for a while. Feel free to follow my project-o-rama over on In Knots: Attempting a Handmade Wedding if you need a dose in the meantime.

Daily Values

Image courtesy of LuneVintage.blogspot.com

Missoni Success!

Woohoo!

After 4 hours of stalking and hitting the refresh button until my finger blistered, I FINALLY got through to the Missoni sale on Target.com.

I picked up the ballet flats, velour hoodie, and the v-neck tissue sweater. I don't know how I managed (erm, actually I do - My bank account said N-O.), but I resisted the robe, sweater skirt, and pajama pants. Oh and the throw blanket, but that was sold out in all three colorways by the time I arrived on the scene. Drat!

Anyway, here is an article about the massive virtual stampede to Target.com from The Washington Post (makes me laugh since I was one of those online crazies), and here is the link to the Missoni goodies. Stores are apparently receiving shipments tomorrow and Thursday to restock.

Based on the current eBay sales, it may be worth snapping up whatever you can find... The shoes I bought for $29.99 are currently listed there (eBay) for $180!

Don't Miss(oni) It!

EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!

I feel like I've been counting down the days for.ev.er, but I can finally say: Missoni for Target launches tomorrow!

 

I'll be attacking my computer basically as soon as I'm awake to see what I can snap up before the hordes move in.

Apparel, home, and goodies for the kiddos, which, even if you don't have any to buy for is worth ogling purely for the cuteness factor.

www.Target.com TOMORROW!

It's That Time Again...

Well, girls, football season is back. Pre-season is in full swing and those of us involved in Fantasy leagues have researched, crossed our fingers, and held our drafts (I am stacked this year... No injuries, now guys, please!!). I posted last  year about the basics of football in the spirit that a little understanding goes a long way on the enjoyment front. (Yes : Enjoyment. You may actually enjoy watching a game.)

So just wanted to give you a jump start on the regular season, and offer a link to those little info tidbits HERE.

Let the games begin!

Image courtesy of LullabyeBaby.com

Tap In

I know, I know, ANOTHER link to someone else's content. But as I stated from the beginning, I solemnly swear to post only good stuff on this blog, remember? And I've stuck to it, yes? Alright then.

I recently discovered Crowd Tap via a friend's Facebook post, and I'm diggin' it. You know those product survey results you're always hearing about and wonder "just who, exactly, is this "THEY" that does theses surveys?!" Well, it's you if you join this free site.

Basically you answer questions with a click or a sentence, and earn points and cash.
No, really.
Once you've earned said cash, you can either have an Amazon.com gift card sent to you in the amount, or donate it directly to a charity of your choice. Mine is the ASPCA (animal rights - not the crazy ones who throw blood, fyi), and the logo is loud and proud on my "profile" on Crowd Tap.

And not only that, but a lot of the companies will send you free product to be tested in the market place. I'm currently awaiting Old Navy's newly redesigned flip-flops to show up in my mailbox. No. Purchase. Required.

Free stuff and good works? I'm tapping in.

Because I'm Nuts

I got engaged recently (Eeeeeeee! Okay, had to get that out of the way.), and because I'm nostalgic... or nuts, you decide... I've decided to start a second blog to record my moments and projects along the way. Only one post thus far, but you can check it out here if you're so inclined.

Step Up[Grade]

Want to get in on the tribal trend without breaking the bank? Check out the latest DIY entry from Geneva on A Pair and A Spare. Best part? Works on heels OR flats, and it's hardly a bank buster - Pick up a couple cheap-o necklaces from Forever 21, break 'em apart, and use the beads on some craft store-bought black string or elastic (or pick up a few packs of beads from your local craft store while you're there) . Drape on a pair of tired black shoes in your closet. New shoes for $10 or less... Just how I like it.

Here are her inspirational shots, from the Burberry money-suckers to her finished project product:

Hot tip: If you have an idea for bead colors you want but can't find them, go the route of buying ready-made necklaces*, pick up a can of spray paint (I like Rustoleum brand), and make them the color(s) you desire. You can do this with any jewelry... And believe me I'm going to.

*It's easier to shellac the ready made strands rather than trying to spray loose beads as they roll around. Not that I have any experience with the latter... *cough cough*

Mani-cure

Trouble making your at home mani-pedi look pro? Check out this step-by-step image via one of my all time fave blogs ...love Maegan

I find it handy even without reading the text, but Maegan has a larger copy on her site, along with some dreamy nail art inspiration shots. Dig in.

Urban[e] Errands

Have you heard of Polyvore.com? It may be pricey at times (okay, most of the time) but it's a fun site to gather some fashion inspiration when you're feeling lackluster about your own closet. I just put together this outfit - Try your hand at your own and get a chance at winning your very own Chanel bag! Fun to create, and hey, even more fun if you win.  Urban[e] Errands by ashleykat17 featuring eugenia kim hats

Victoria s Secret racer back tank
$44 - victoriassecret.com

CIMARRON cropped jeans
$135 - stylebop.com

Teal handbag
$66 - topshop.com

DAY Birger et Mikkelsen goldtone jewelry
$110 - net-a-porter.com

Silver jewelry
oliverbonas.com

Eugenia kim hat
$335 - net-a-porter.com

MICHAEL Michael Kors lightweight sunglasses
$57 - nordstrom.com

Nixing the Chicken

Keratosis pilaris (KP), known commonly as 'Chicken Skin', affects - ready? - nearly 50% of the population. That's half the world, we're talkin' here!

What is it, exactly? Well, the scary scientific definition is that KP is  an incurable and chronic genetic follicular disease. The reality is that it's those ugly but harmless bumpy and/or red patches of skin that run most commonly on the backs of your arms. They're caused by too much skin growing around each of your hair follicles.

Image courtesy of BumpsOnSkin.com

It's something I've dealt with my whole life - Trips to the dermatologist as a kid, lactic acid lotions, oatmeal soap, and, since mine is on my arms, calves, and entire jawline, forever having people ask me if my "bad sunburn" hurts. I have scars all over my arms from picking at these unsightly blights for 25+ years, and it's flat out embarrassing. My friends and I even refer to my jawline as "The Beard" because it becomes so inflamed when I exercise or drink.

Lovely, right? Yeah.

Now after all that depression, here's a ray of light: DERMAdoctor's KP Duty Lotion. I've heard about this magic elixer for a while, but at $36 for 3 ounces.... Ouch. You'd think I would have been desperate enough to bite the bullet, but no... I'm cheap.

I finally did though, and let me tell you: After three days - THREE DAYS - I see a difference. I am significantly less red, and my skin is noticeably smoother. Three frikken' days. Even I can't believe it. I'm not using it on my face (some reviewers say you can), but there is marked improvement on my arms. I plan to give it a go on my calves post-haste.

What makes it work? Basically it combines three acids (don't be scared.): Glycolic and Lactic for exfoliation, and Azelaic for pore refinement. Mixed in with those heavy hitters you've got soothing willow bark and tea tree oil, which also reduce redness, and lastly Dimethicone, which hangs on to moisture like camel in the Sahara.

Sold? Buy it here for $36. Also offered up for sale are a body scrub and wrinkle cream with the same medicinal properties.

I don't know why the chicken crossed the road, but at least now it's taking it's skin with it instead of leaving it with me.

 

Image courtesy of LiveStrong.com

Note: I have extremely sensitive skin when it comes to medicated potions (no benzoyl peroxide, very little salicylic acid, etc.), and this hasn't irritated my skin in any way.

30 Days Update

How are you doing on  your 30 Days? I'm hoping even if you're not creating, you're seeing things in a different light as you're out there in the world. I know I've actually been turning pages of magazines with an eye for "can I make that myself somehow?" and ripping out inspiration pages left and right.

 Image courtesy of RockbrookCamp.com

Note to self... Purchase second bulletin board...

Here's my latest attempt at trying to master a new creative feat: The Chevron Friendship Bracelet. Remember those guys? Takes me back to camp bunks and taking a polar bear plunge in the wee hours of the morning in a freezing lake.

Super on-trend for summer, the old-school friendship bracelet is back and now can be created with more dextrous fingers and better taste in color than when you were nine (...well, hopefully).

First Attempt Bracelet by Yours Truly!

 Here's the tutorial I used to learn via Honestly...WTF. Clear instructions with lovely photos of each step. Fun and easy to do while catching up on all those mind expanding documentaries waiting on your dvr... like... The Bachelorette.

'Fess up, I know it's not just me.

 

Nearly Finished - Note the Puggle lounge in the background...