Fashion, Faces & Fabulous (Month One)

Every month, beauty expert, Courtney Rogers, and myself will be giving you the very best advice on how to model the latest fashion and makeup trends. We agree it can be a little challenging to find a balance between style and beauty. Here, we will give you the latest insight on how to choose the perfect outfit while also incorporating your basic beauty necessities. We hope that with our help you feel more fabulous than ever before. Stay stylish, dolls. 

"Nothing makes a woman more beautiful than the belief that she is beautiful."

 -Sophia Loren

Hannah (Style): Wherever you are, you are probably getting ready for fall. Slowly, we start seeing more scarves and sweaters. While we get excited for the new season, it is important to transition properly with your ensembles. Eva Mendes knows just how to do that. She opts for a simple white top (something you can get year round) while pairing it with a brown colored maxi skirt. She properly displays a caramel colored side bag and belt. Her sand colored wedges are the perfect transition piece, while this specific hue works for both summer and fall. She adds a touch of color with blue sunnies. 

Grab a similar look while purchasing a white blouse, darker colored skirt and simple, neutral shoes. Whether you choose heels, sandals or wedges, you need that perfect transition piece. Add a touch of summer fun (while you still have some time left) with a small accessory such as a pair of sunnies, a bracelet, necklace or ring. If you need any assistance, your personal stylist is here to help.

Courtney (Beauty): This season its all about simple, sexy and making a statement. I want to highlight three of my favorite looks I see trending. There are many more hitting the runway and fashion magazines, but these are my favs! 

The first look is sophisticated and simple. Its all about keeping the eyes very minimal, with flawless, but natural looking skin, a light contour through the cheek bones, and then a bold lip from burgundy to bright red. The more muted, the more fallish it will feel.

To achieve this look it doesn’t take much. Start with a sheer foundation, tinted moisturizer or BB Cream. Depending upon how clear your skin is, you can keep it pretty light. I like to add concealer under the eyes to brighten up any dark cirlces. Set with your favorite HD powder. For the eyes, simply use a primer (like the Paint Pots from MAC) and cover the lid. This can be the all over highlight color and brow bone highlight. Or, you can use a light color one shade brighter than your current coloring. Pop a tan to brown shade all over the lid to the crease for a nice, natural definition. Use this same color to contour out the cheekbones. Make a fishy-face and add that color under the bone for the perfect definition. Forego the liner, and just put on several coats of mascara, or even falsies if you are headed out. Lightly fill in your brows with a powder or pencil one shade lighter than your natural hair. To finish, pop on that bold lip! This is the best part. I like to start with a lip primer to help with any feathering. When working with darker colors, it is essential to keep the lip very defined, so line the lips with a matching liner. To pick out your perfect lip color, be sure to find one that really compliments your skin tone. Anything from a rosey red, to a bold burgundy will make the right statement. If you are having trouble choosing, your favorite beauty advisor will be sure to point you in the right direction.

Hannah (Style): One of the most popular statement pieces we will find in fashion this season is some lovely lace. While out shopping, I have seen it incorporated in scarves, on shoes, pants, jewelry and so much more. I personally love a lace blouse that you can pair with some jeans or leggings like Olivia Munn, above. She knows exactly what she is doing while she goes for that sexy lace on top, skinny jeans and black booties. 

If you opt for this look, keep in mind that most (not all) lace tops are produced in lighter hues. You want to make sure you incorporate your top with a dark bottom, such as a pair of jeans and definitely make sure you add a dark, closed toe heel or booties to have your body appear long and lean. Go for dark nails and simple jewelry (perhaps a pair of studded diamond earrings.)

Courtney (Beauty): The second look I want to spotlight is just super fun! It sort of takes me back to the 80’s with color! It’s all about a fun pastel shadow on your lids, lots of mascara and then a smudged out brown or black liner on the bottom. Adding a lip to match the lids is the perfect finish, or just a gloss. It’s a new version of that smokey eye we all die for.

For this look you just need to find that favorite colored shadow! I love using a pastel purple or blue. I love to wear this look with muted wardrobe tones, or matchy-match my outfit to my eyeshadow. Just go with what ever you feel on this look. Start with that light foundation in the first look, and then add your fun shadow all over your lid. Blend it with a nice fluffy brush through the lid crease to buzz out any harsh lines. I like to add a soft brown liner on the inner rim of my upper lids. This gives a fullness to my lashes. Pop that same liner on the lower, inner rim of the eye and then smudge it under the eyes. The thicker the smudged out liner, the more dramatic it will be. Be sure this is a soft smudged look, nothing too harsh. To keep it even softer, use a light brown color to blend in with that pencil under the eyes. Curl your lashes and add lots of mascara or some lashes if you are going for drama. I like to add a bright pink lip and then wipe it down to look more like a stain. Pop on a flirty, naturally pink cheek to finish this look off, or opt for a bronzer as a contour.

Hannah (Style): One of my celeb look alike's really went cute in this look above. Katy Perry goes fun and flirty with a floral printed dress and skinny black belt. I absolutely love that she took this look to another level with a bright, white headband and flats (don't judge a girl for having to carry her matching wedges, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do!) She perfectly showcases that you can wear a cute pair of wedges or a simple pair of flats with a dress like this.

To develop a similar look, find a fun printed dress that screams fall. Dark, neutral colors are always great but if you seriously need a little bit more color to add to your wardrobe, do not be afraid to go for a tomato red, mustard yellow, burnt orange, or dark purples and blues. Find that amazing frock and pair it was a matching pair of wedges or brown or black pair of flats. 

All of these ensembles are terrific and absolutely what you will see in stores and around the block. Be creative and don't ever be afraid to take a risk. Your fashion should be bold and flirty. Treat it like you are strolling by the ocean, as near to the edge as you can go. 

XOXO your personal stylist, Hannah Cook - www.facebook.com/DollMaison

Courtney (Beauty): The last trending look I am so excited to share with you is one that I have fallen in love with! Its sort of a holographic look/ smokey eye. This look is perfect for a day to night or just a dressy day look. It’s natural enough that you can rock it with your Toms and casual skirt or jeans, but also bold enough to wear out on the town.

For this look, grab your favorite pastel shade of eye shadow. With a fluffy brush, apply it all over the lids, and then pop it underneath the lower lashes as well. Create a 45 degree angle from the outer edge of the eye, to the corner of the brow. Throw on several coats of mascara and a subtle cheek and lip. Definitely let those eyes pop! This is fun, flirty and fabulous!

These looks are bold, and may be a stretch for you. But have fun, and see what happens! It’s nice to be able to change it up a little bit. Embrace being a woman and kick up those heels! I’m doing it too!

XOXO your makeup artist, Courtney Rogers - Human Beauty www.facebook.com/humanbeauty

Angel In London

One of my friends, Georgie, got the amazing opportunity to experience Fashion's Night Out (FNO) this past Friday. Not only was she lucky enough to have this chance, she got to have her FNO adventures in London! She had the time of her life and got to visit the new Victoria's Secret in London. I must admit, I am beyond jealous. The closest thing I got to the new store was Victoria's Secret Limited Edition London Dream Angels Push-Up bra. For real. Enjoy reading about her experience below and witness some amazing pictures she captured while exploring the new store. Thanks Georgie!

"Little did I know that when my boyfriend and I planned a day out to London that we were coinciding with one of Fashion's biggest nights; Fashion's Night Out! I'd heard of FNO but had forgotten that it was a worldwide event! I'd seen various tweets about goings on in New York and was extremely jealous! Then, when I checked Facebook the morning of our trip to London, I saw that there was an event happening at the brand new Victoria's Secret Store on New Bond Street - one of London's exclusive shopping streets. I immediately re-shuffled all of our plans to make sure we could go! My boyfriend was almost as excited as me.

When we arrived on Oxford Street, one of London's famous shopping regions, I noticed that most of the shops were celebrating FNO and were advertising some in their windows! Forever 21 was doing makeovers, House of Fraser (a department store) was having fashion shows and had DJ's performing while Swarovski was giving 20% off, swag bags and free champagne! - the whole street had a buzz about it but still I was more excited for Victoria's Secret!

There are only two VS stores in the whole of the UK, both of which have opened in the last month. I'm a huge fan of the brand and have been for years, after visits to stores in the US. I'd avidly follow news of the launch online and couldn't wait to get up there and see the store.

The event at VS started at 6pm, however my boyfriend and I got there at 4:45pm - I had no doubt in my mind that I could spend an hour and fifteen minutes in there and boy was I right!

As you walk in to the store there is a long black corridor, showcasing two of Alessandra Ambrosio's recent annual fashion show costumes; the detail in which was stunning. On the walls were each and every perfume that VS produces; including the Limited Edition London fragrance (which smells incredible by the way!) The corridor was long, leading up to an incredible mirrored staircase leading to the three other floors. Leading off of the corridor were four rooms. Three showcasing lingerie and one showcasing body products and the cash registers. The rest of the store was much the same; glamorous, enthralling and sophisticated.

There was thumping music playing and incredibly helpful staff everywhere. There was definitely a buzz about FNO. A lot of the staff were keen to tell me about their special offer; if I spent $70 (which let's face it would not be hard!) I would get a free iPhone case and a tote bag! I bought two bras, some PINK yoga pants and a lip stain - all extremely good value for money and good quality.

After 6pm (the official start of the VS FNO) there were waiters all of a sudden handing out macaroons and cupcakes! Pink of course! It was a great atmosphere; the amount of people in the shop suddenly doubled! All of the staff were extremely helpful and more than friendly when it came to gifting me the items!

Fashion's Night Out in general was incredible because there were thousands of people coming together for one thing; a joint love of fashion. It was evident that everybody was excited to be there and the general atmosphere in London at the moment (brilliant as it already is, due to the Olympics) was even more apparent.

I greatly enjoyed my FNO experience and I hope I get the chance to go next year!"

Follow Georgie on Twitter @GeorgieToningUp and read her awesome blog http://www.diaryofanaspiringbeachbabe.com/

XOXO

Crazy Competition

With the premiere of The Voice: Season Three tonight, we gear up for some exciting things. From the blind auditions, to the battle rounds, as well as new rules to the game, seriously, who cannot be stoked! New advisers to our amazing coaches this season will include; Mary J. Blige, Michael Buble, Rob Thomas and Billie Joe Armstrong. If this doesn't scream "fun," I am not sure what does. Lets just hope we get to witness more of Adam and Blake's jokes, CeeLo leaves his cat at home and that Christina dresses more appropriately. One can wish. 

My future husband, Adam Levine, seriously gives me a feeling of butterflies in my stomach. He is possibly the most gorgeous guy in the world. He shows off a strong, edgy vibe on stage while he sports his sexy tattoos, bold sunnies, and goes for his usual, white tee and jeans. Nothing more delicious than this hottie. 

Ladies man, CeeLo Green, looks fab in this exciting ensemble. Displaying his classy attire, he wears a long coat and tie with genuine Italian leather shoes. CeeLo accompanies his look with a gorge red scarf and rad black sunnies. 

Supermom, Christina Aguilera, enjoys a night on the town with her sweetest accessory, son, Max. I love that Christina rocks an all black ensemble (something I am known to do). Her printed blouse and studded flats add the perfect touch to her look. I love that a girl with curves (like myself) is not afraid to model off some leggings. Its not just for stick thin girls, people. Embrace your curves, ladies!

Country bad boy, Blake Shelton, perfects his southern style with this excellent purple shirt, blue jeans and cowboy boots. With his slick back hair, charming smile and exposed tattoo, he gives us a signal of bad boy with a touch of sweet heart. Boy, is Miranda Lambert one lucky girl. 

Fash In 360 (Destination Three)

Backpacking around the world from now until early next year, my longtime childhood friend, Ashley, is taking photographs around the world to assemble a portfolio for future jobs. Along the way, she will be sending information and some photographs regarding the latest fashion trends from each city she visits. I am seriously ecstatic to have the opportunity to share this firsthand information with you, my readers. With Ashley's endeavor, we can develop and evolve our own personal favorites into our wardrobe at home.

BERLIN

Just in from Ashley, while scoping out Berlin and getting the chance to explore the adventurous city she describes it to be, Ashley explains that the fashion is very punk rock. She says while she was walking around, she witnessed a ton of dark colors, boots and piercings. Below are a few pics of Berlin fash.

Follow Ashley on twitter @ashleymeek90 while she travels the world and read about all of her spectacular adventures on her blog http://ashleyroundtheworld.blogspot.com/.

Keep Makin' Me Ill (Week Eleven)

I have what the unenlightened would deride as a compulsion, fetish, infatuation, or obsession, yet I value as a virus every male and female should contract, Seriously Irresistible Shoes Syndrome. I need clothes (how many consecutive afternoons can one wear Lauren Conrad leggings? Love you LC), however when I even glimpse espadrilles, flats, sandals, stilettos, or wedges; necessities be damned! My eyes shimmer, my heart flutters, and within two hours, I’m reorganizing my closet because last week’s pair has new neighbors.

This is such a sexy shoe that it should be illegal if you don't have a pair in your closet. These Boutique 9 Pumps ($150) are great with a gorge gown or for a more casual look, a pair of jeans. Absolutely a basic essential you NEED. 

Too perfect for words, these Michael Kors Pumps ($325) are amaze. Seriously in love, and while I ponder what I could wear these with, I vision a cream or black frock, simple stud earrings, sparkly bangles and a gray or black clutch (depending on which dress I choose). Beautiful!

My fav pair of the week, I will anything for these Rachel Zoe Sandals ($295). Bananas! I feel like I could rock them entirely upon my arrival back to California. What a maj moment that would be. Should I get these... no, the better question is how soon can I get these! I die. 

Fall is such a problem for me because I admire the colors so much. I love dark and nude hues. Truthfully, I feel everyone should own a pair whether they be nude or dark shoes for the season. Perhaps these Diane von Furstenberg Suede Sandals ($280) are ideal for your fall wardrobe. Mix this color with any ensemble of your choice. 

Suede is huge (like the duo, above). These wine colored, suede Stuart Weitzman Pointed Toe Pumps ($365) are excellent. The gold gives off a little bit of edge while keeping it modern and sophisticated. Pair these with black pants and a leopard top. This hue is the "it" color for fall and goes awesome with leopard print!