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Ask Belle Roundup: Vol IV, No. Fifteen

Mar 31, 2014

Dear Belle,

I’ve just had my ears pierced (at 25 years), and am at a loss for what basic earring styles to start with. I was wondering if you could suggest a couple of classic pairs, preferably in white gold, for me to start a collection?

Thanks in advance, Carmen

If you’re just starting out, there are a few classic pairs to consider.  I would recommend a pair of pearl studs.  I own these ones from J.Crew and they’re surprisingly nice.  I also like this pair of under-$150 diamond accented studs, for those who like a hint of sparkle.

Studs are my earring of choice, so I would add a few interesting pairs.  I like these mini-bar studs from Gorjana and these marcasite studs from Judith Jack.  Prefer hoops?  I love these v-shaped hoops from Rebecca Minkoff, she also makes them in hexagons.  You could also go for a large pair, but watch the weight.  These thin Michael Kors hoops have some drama to them.

It’s also important to have a couple of pairs for evening wear.  These long Moroccan open-work drops are fab.  I also like this green lever-back pair from Anne Klein.  And these semi-precious drop earrings have a sleek, thin design for just $15.

Hi Belle,

I need a good liquid eyeliner. What’s your favorite?

Love the blog! Rosa

I really like Stila’s Stay All Day Liner.  For a drugstore brand, I like Rimmel London Scandal Eyes liner.

Dear Belle,

I saw your post on Friday about long sleeve blouses, but I’m searching for something with short-sleeves.  I want to find a few blouses to wear with skirts when the weather warms up.  Do you have any suggestions that cost less that $100?

Beth

Due to air-conditioning, I usually wear long-sleeved blouses in all seasons.  But if you’re looking for short sleeves, here are a few tops that caught my eye.

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Calvin Klein Sheer Accent Top ($59) // Ann Taylor Split Neck Top ($69) // NYDJ Ink Dot Blouse ($79) // Chelsea Surplice Top ($58)

These sheer tops have a good mix of color, print and texture.  I like the look of a sheer accent because it brings lightness to a pencil skirt or trouser.  I also like a bright or pastel color for the warmer seasons.

Plus-size?  This green Modcloth blouse with a split-neck is nice.  I also like this Forever 21 blouse with a flutter sleeve and lace detail.  Petite?  This LOFT top with a mini-floral print is nice, as is this ASOS blouse with puffed sleeves.  Tall?  This Liz Claiborne blouse comes in a fun print.

Hi Belle,

I love reading your blog and appreciate all the great info you give us. I’ve been following your blog for several months now and I love the makeup suggestions you give. I am hoping you will be able to help with an issue I have. I have a very red skin tone, and have naturally red cheeks. Do you have any suggestions or recommendations for this situation?

Thanks! Jessica

This isn’t a problem that I struggle with, but I asked around and a couple of people recommended Clinique Redness Solutions makeup.  The clerk at the Ulta store recommended this product from It Cosmetics.  And a former beauty blogger recommended a green tinted base like L’Oreal Studio Secrets primer.

Hi Belle,

Although it’s frigid today, I know warmer weather is on its way. I’m wondering if you have any recommendations for products for smoothing dry and bumpy arms. I’m currently too embarrassed to even think of exposing my arms when it gets warm. 

Thanks, S

I developed this problem a few years ago, and I have two solutions for you.  Dermadoctor makes a product line called KP Duty, it contains a scrub, serum and lotion to help exfoliate and heal bumpy, dry arms.

If these products are out of your price range, I also have a low-cost solution. Buy exfoliating gloves and keep them in your shower (wash them once-a-week in anti-bacterial soap) and pick up a drugstore AHA body soap, like this one from Beauty Without Cruelty.  To eliminate the bumps, you need to scrub your arms every time or every other time you shower.

Since you’re doing all of this exfoliating, you need to moisturize.  But you don’t want to re-clog your pores with a thick lotion.  Instead, try a body lotion with salicylic acid like Cerave Renewing SA Lotion.