Monday, December 9, 2013 by Belle

Ask Belle Roundup Vol. III, No. Forty-One

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Hi Belle!

I’m looking for some good winter accessories. I love the idea of a cashmere hat, but am picturing my hair either standing straight up from static or completely plastered to my head. I’m considering ear warmers, but most of the ones I’ve found have either been puffy hot pink disasters or super masculine and ugly. Do I just need to deal with having frozen ears?

Hope you can help! Barbara

If you’re sold on ear warmers, I like these cashmere-blend Ralph Lauren earmuffs ($58). I’ve also seen a number of fur and faux-fur muffs on the market. Or just go for the classic reverse ear-warmer, and choose this Winterlude faux-suede one.

Prefer a hat? There a few styles to consider. I’m partial to this Jonathan Adler beret. I also like this Laneus cable-knit beanie and this very sleek Coldwater Creek cloche. As for that static problem you mentioned…

Belle,

How do you fight staticy winter hair? I look like I stuck my finger in a light socket.

Thx! Alex

Static is a pervasive and annoying problem during the colder months, but there are a few solutions.

Dryer sheets can help you control staticky hair, just rub them on your combs and brushes. Frizz-reducing products, like Moroccan Oil Frizz Control, will also help. If I’m in a bind, I’ll rub a little lotion on my hands and then run my fingers through my hair. And if you’re struggling with static on your clothes, don’t forget to keep a small can of Static Guard in your desk.

Dear Belle,

Thank you for your posts on holiday party attire. I’m searching for a sequin blazer to wear to a party. I’m looking for one that costs less than $150. Thanks a bunch!

Enna

Sequin blazers look great paired with simple cocktail dresses or a silk tank and jeans. If you’d like a fully sequined blazer, I found this collarless Michael Kors blazer. I also like this silver jacket with a black collar from DEPT.

You could also try a blazer with a sequin collar, like this one from Grace Elements or this white one from BB Dakota (also in plus-size). Or go for a blazer with sequin sleeves, like this one from Mango.

Hi Belle,

Now that I’m out of the “broke college girl” phase in which I only used soap, hand lotion, and the occasional bottle of Apricot Scrub on my face, I’d like to start a real skincare (a good cleanser, moisturizer, toner, maybe a Clarisonic, etc.) for my face. However, with so.many.options out there, I’m having a hard time deciding what expensive products are worth it and which ones aren’t. Could you give some advice for building an initial skincare plan? I have combination skin that is mostly clear, but gets some acne when the seasons change.

Thank you thank you!

JNick

Let’s start with face wash. You don’t need to splurge on soap unless you have a specific skin concern like rosacea, eczema or acne. For your first time out, try Cetaphil or the mild cleanser from Clinique.

If you like masks, I would recommend the Origins Charcoal Mask or the either the GlamGlow purifying mask or the scrubbing mask. Then, if you’re in your late 20s, I would spend some money on a serum. I like Skinceuticals and isClinical. Serums are used for anti-aging and aid cell regeneration. If you’re over 30, it’s time to choose a serum or gel with retinol.

Beyond that, you can decide whether you want to spend a lot or a little on moisturizer. I have sensitive skin, so I splurge a bit on an Ole Henriksen moisturizer with antioxidants. If your skin has no special concerns, save a bit, and try Cerave facial moisturizer or Simple protecting moisturizer with SPF. (If you don’t want to wear separate sunscreen, find a facial lotion with it built-in.)

If you want to start a new skin regimen, you can also buy a set from the same brand. I think Philosophy, Ole Henriksen or Origins would be a good place to start. All of these kits provide the basics to get you started.

Belle,

My new job requires a lot of travel. My old suitcase isn’t small enough to fit in the overhead and my employer hates waiting at baggage claim. Do you have a favorite carry-on bag?

Thank you, love your blog. V

I don’t travel as much as some CHS readers, but I definitely have a favorite. The glories of the Samsonite Spinner Collection cannot be overstated. Whenever I have to travel with my other suitcase, I wonder how I ever lived without multi-directional spinning wheels. I own this cloth suitcase, but I’ve been considering upgrading to one with a hard outer shell.

Monday, December 9, 2013 by Belle

Belle’s Weekly Favorites: December 9

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1. Marc Jacobs Kisa Dress ($600) // 2. Vince Camuto Fiona Satchel ($328) // 3. Marni Resin Cuff ($189) // 4. Astrid Lace Pencil Skirt ($298) // 5. Gianvito Rossi Mesh Pumps ($770) // 6. Cosabella Ceylon Camisole ($152) // 7. Black Bar Asymmetric Dress ($110) // 8. Day Birger et Mikkelsen Wrap Front Blouse ($250)

One. I love the idea of a black and ivory dress for the winter months. This Marc Jacobs is a amazing, so amazing that, even with that price tag, it’s sold out.

I also found this fantastic Carissima sheath at Anthropologie (also in petites). The dress has a lot of great textures with a black ribbon belt. And if you need something under-$100, try this Nine West dress with black lace sleeves and an ivory bodice. I also found this short-sleeve sheath from Dorothy Perkins.

Plus-size? This IGIGI dress has a structured shape and a lace half sleeve.

Two. This bag is one of my favorite purses on the market right now. The colors, the metal accents, the cross body strap…awesome. I love the look of snakeskin and black together. Sadly, it is not a combination that has trickled down to the lower price points in large quantities. I did, however, find this cool Olivia + Joy Gatsby satchel for $72.

Three. Resin bracelets are so much fun. The mix of neutrals on this Marni cuff makes it a versatile piece for your wardrobe. I also like the mix of grey and silver on this Marc Jacobs chain bracelet, and this hematite crystal bangle for $10.

Four. Prefer separates to dresses? Try a silky black top with a black lace skirt for holiday party attire. This Tibi skirt has a crocheted lace with a sheer band at the bottom. In the under-$100 category, I found this Graham & Spencer skirt and this Modcloth skirt with a sheer panel at the bottom.

Tall? Try this crochet lace skirt from Ann Taylor (also in misses). Plus-size? Salon Z has a beautiful lace skirt for sale.

Five. I adore these mesh pumps. Every time I see them, I’m mesmerized by their soft, sultry quality. Luckily, this is a trend that you can find in the cost-conscious price points. The Badgley Mischka Myria pumps are sky high for parties and dinners, while these Caparros pumps are a bit closer to Earth.

Six. A good quality lace tank can be worn to bed or under a blazer for a racier evening look. I like to layer mine under a v-neck sweater or dress so just a hint of lace peaks out. If you need something less expensive, try this DKNY lace camisole or this Only Hearts cropped camisole.

Seven. The cut of this dress is very unique. I love the asymmetrical sleeves, and the skirt is growing on me. Either way, that’s a lot of chic for a moderate price.

Eight. Ivory blouses are one of my wardrobe staples. I have two that I wear quite frequently because they’re classic and chic. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, try this Iris & Ink button up blouse. I also like this Vince Camuto blouse with black details on the shoulder and placket. Plus-size? Try this Vince Camuto faux wrap blouse.

Pinterest Mondays will run on Wednesday this week. I just had some trouble finding an outfit that I loved to recreate.

Monday, December 9, 2013 by Belle

10th Commandment: December 9

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Elected Official

Trina Turk Fair Isle Sweater ($298)

Hill Staffer

J.Crew Ivory Fair Isle Sweater ($98 + 30%-off with code PRESENTS)

Paid Intern

Old Navy Fair Isle Turtleneck ($29)

Plus-size: Land’s End Fair Isle Turtleneck ($56) Petite: LOFT Fair Isle Sweater ($70) Tall: Old Navy Fair Isle Turtleneck ($29)

Friday, December 6, 2013 by Belle

Happy Hour: Ice Ice, Baby

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Ice is an important ingredient in many cocktails. The shape and size of the ice cubes used can actually change how a drink tastes. If you plan to take the time to serve a beautiful cocktail this holiday season or your sipping from an expensive bottle of spirits in celebration, you should take a little time to get your ice right.

The key to perfect ice is to boil the water first. In addition to giving you cleaner, clearer cubes, Food52 explains that the resulting ice will be denser and melt slower than the bag ice from the bodega. (photos ℅ Food52)

As for shaping homemade ice, that depends on the type of cocktail you’re serving. I like large spherical molds for serving good Bourbon and Whisky. For regular cocktails and punch bowls, I use a silicon ice cube tray from Tovolo. But if you’re feeling festive, check out these mold for stars or reindeer.

You can also sink things into the ice. Sometimes, I’ll put berries or orange peels into the cubes, if I’m serving brunch. For the holidays, what about red currants and sprigs of rosemary?

Rachel Zoe Presley Sweater ($325)

Speaking of ice, I’ve found some holiday sweaters that are both festive and chic. No ugly embroidered reindeer needed.

I chose this RZ sweater for the mix of textures and the sequin sleeve. If you’d like a similar look for less, try this American Eagle sweater or this one from Topshop.

For a bit of sparkle in your casual winter attire, I also like this Sequin Colorblock Sweater from LOFT. This Joan Vass sweater with the chevron design is nice, but my favorite is this inexpensive sweater from Robbi & Nikki with sequin stripes.

Prefer your sequins on a sweater dress? Try this sparkly black number from Karen Kane or this Michael Kors dress with an embellished neckline. Or just work a sequin scarf, like this gray one from Forever21 or this Echo infinity scarf, into your wardrobe.

Plus-size? Try this simple Calvin Klein sweater with sequin detail or this Macy’s sweater dress with a jeweled neckline. Petite? The LOFT sequin sweater comes in your size, as does this ethereal Alfani sweater. Tall? This L’Wren Scott for Banana Republic cardi comes in your size.

Friday, December 6, 2013 by Belle

Belle’s Weekly Reading: December 6, 2013

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1) When I was seventh grade, my Mother bought me my first Seventeen magazine. It was the back to school issue, and Katherine Heigl was on the cover. Those glossy pages are remembered fondly. Perhaps that’s why I found this list of headlines from vintage teen magazines made me chuckle. I also like the list of Cosmo headlines, they never cease to amaze.

2) I’m attending a holiday party where the host has requested that all the women wear red. I sold my go-to red dress a few years ago, so I guess it’s time to find a new one. I’m thinking about this lace Adrianna Papell, or this Cynthia Steffe dress that looks like it could be Monique Lhuillier. Maybe I’ll just rent this one-shoulder dress from Badgley Mischka, instead?

3) While I am not a parent, I found this article, “7 Secrets to Raising Happy Kids” very illuminating. Lots of good advice, not just for raising children, but for being a fully-formed person.

4) The temperature was -24 degrees in Montana over the holidays. I was forced to buy a pair of glittery shearling-lined boots to wear as slippers because my parent’s house never cracked 55-degrees. I’m thinking about picking up these TOMS boots to wear in the house instead, or maybe I’ll just go 80s and buy leg warmers. Very Flashdance.

5) The Urban Decay Naked 3 Palette is selling out everywhere, and with its selection of rose-hued neutrals, it’s not hard to see why. Ulta has fresh stock, so get ‘em while they’re hot.

6) Check out these amazing shadow sculptures. Nothing is what it seems.

7) Roland Mouret, why must you tease me? Your dresses are beautiful, but the prices obscene. Even when I find them for 75%-off at Centruy21, they still give me pause. This is the Target designer collaboration that I would most like to see.

8) Unlike most of my gender, my handwriting is terrible. My old Boss once banned me from writing him any notes because he could never translate my “serial killer scratches.” Due to our reliance on typing, some schools have stopped teaching cursive. Comedian Stephen Colbert does not agree with that decision, this video defending his position will cheer up a dreary Friday.

9) Kate Middleton wore a $36 Zara necklace to an event. It is now selling for five-times that amount on eBay.

Want something similar for under-$75? This multi-row Cezanne crystal necklace is beautiful. I also LOVE this beaded multi-row necklace from INC, the mix of grey, silver and gold is so beautiful. And if you prefer something with rocker-chic, this Topshop chain necklace bridges the gap between edgy and pretty.

10) It’s a bit too cold to be thinking about flats with open backs. But I loved these Sam Edelman studded shoes so much (esp. at $110), that I bought them so I wouldn’t miss out come March.

11) This weekend, my hometown is having a food drive. Our little community donates more pounds of food than the City of Seattle collected at their food drive. I’ve always been proud to be from such a generous place, but one thing has always perplexed me.

You see, it takes hundreds of volunteers to collect food from the working class neighborhoods because there is a bag on every porch. Only a dozen are needed to do pick ups in the Country Club and the wealthier subdivisions. Studies show that nationally, the poorest 20-percent of Americans give 3.2% of their income to charity, while the wealthiest 20-percent give only 1.2% to needy causes.

It’s the season to be grateful for what we have. So even if you can only make a small donation, I encourage you to give to FeedingAmerica, a charity that helps local food banks and non-profits that feed the needy. If you’re from MT, you can give to the MT Food Bank Network directly. And if you have the means, think about setting up a recurring donation that can be debited from your account each month.

Monday, December 9, 2013 by Belle

Monday, December 9, 2013 by Belle

Monday, December 9, 2013 by Belle

Friday, December 6, 2013 by Belle

Friday, December 6, 2013 by Belle

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