Deconstructed Life

A Giveaway Alert and Reminder About the New Blog!

2011-01-29T17:30:00.000-05:00

Just a reminder to come over to my new blog, I Try Stuff On (So You Don't Have To) -- I am also planning to run a giveaway on my new blog in the next week or two so become a follower so you know about the giveaway first!

I've MOVED! Check out "I Try Stuff On (So You Don't Have To)"!

2011-01-11T21:02:00.000-05:00

This blog obviously hasn't been updated in a while. I have started a new blog, I Try Stuff On (So You Don't Have To), and would be very appreciative if you could wander over there, follow/subscribe/what have you! This new blog is literally one whole day old.

I am still in the process of setting up a few things on the new blog itself, so come over and check out my work in progress!

Cover FX Mineral Powder Review

2010-10-10T23:25:00.000-04:00

Let me start off this review with a story.

There I was, back in June of 2010, having finished with a doctor's appointment and on my way to meet my husband for lunch and then some friends for the afternoon, when I stopped in at a midtown Sephora to pick up some random skincare product. I glanced at my face in a mirror on the way out and grimaced at the shine that had managed to develop in just the 4 short hours since I had spackled my face that morning.

On my way out of the store, I passed the Cover FX display and decided on a whim to test out a powder. I randomly chose the Powder FX Mineral Powder. I grabbed one of Sephora's free sponges and put some powder across my greasy t-zone, and was instantly happy with the results. But would my happiness last throughout the humid afternoon, or would shine return?

You can probably guess where this story is going. No grease. No shine. I went back a few days later and purchased my own Cover FX Powder FX Mineral Powder. I decided not to use the flimsy powder applicator-thing that comes with this product, and instead apply it with a square foundation sponge.

This product has bumped Bare Minerals from my makeup bag. I apply it after my cover-up and just need some blush/bronzer on top. The product feels light yet the coverage is great for me (if you have more serious skin problems or discoloration, which I don't, you might need something like this Cover FX Total Coverage Cream). It also layers nicely, just in case I need to go out after work. Lastly, the $35 price tag may seem steep to some but I am still on the same compact I bought about three months ago, and I easily have several more weeks of powder left (and that is with daily use!).

Any Cover FX fans out there? I would love to hear about your experiences!

Photoshop, Photoshop of Horrors (and a New Anthropologie Dress!)

2010-10-05T20:03:00.000-04:00

I have several major fashion pet peeves, and photoshopping is near the top of that list. I cannot stand how it seems that everything these days is photoshopped, but I especially cannot stand truly horrible photoshopping. Think along the lines of misplaced limbs, oddly shaped and twisted bodies, and floating heads.

Earlier this evening I was browsing the dresses at Rent the Runway, and wandered across these two photos (each from the Rent the Runway site). I understand that one may want to make a model seem a touch thinner. Or have the clothing drape differently. Or eliminate a shadow. I understand these things, even though I still don't really condone it. But I have a hard time believing that these two below photos accurately represent the models' bodies.

It's like playing "Where's Waldo?" in trying to spot all of the inaccuracies...

I also recently purchased a heavily discounted dress from Anthropologie (more than 50% off). I tried on so many dresses (the Foremost Dress, the Ruffled Plaid Dress, the Amethyst Medley Shirtdress, the Vapor Rise Dress, the Brassica Dress, and the Evening Enchantment Dress).

Luckily I settled on one that was on sale!

Introducing my new dress...

The Violet Gloaming Dress, by Moulinette Souers!

Jimmy Choo Corset Booties (Eye Candy)

2010-10-03T23:46:00.000-04:00

Every so often, I stumble across something beautiful, be it a dress, a handbag, or a pair of shoes. Not just a functional item, mind you, but rather something that would be just as wonderful to put on a shelf and admire as opposed to actually wearing to an event.

I found one of these items on the Footwear News facebook page earlier this week (Footwear News is a Condé Nast publication and a leader in the footwear industry). Presenting...

The Jimmy Choo Corset Booties!

(Both photos from the Jimmy Choo website)

These shose come with a steep pricetag ($1,095) an even steeper heel, and are made of suede and snakeskin. I adore the Victorian look in the front and the modern twist (a zipper) in the back.

What do you think?

Forever 21 Pop-Up Store to Open on Fifth Ave.

2010-09-29T20:22:00.000-04:00

I read on Crain's New York Business website today (link here) that Forever 21 will be opening a pop-up store in the old Takashimaya space on Fifth Avenue in Midtown.

I was an ardent advocate of Takashimaya, the upscale and sophisticated Japanese department store with a Fifth Avenue outpost. They closed this past year (read my blog post about Takashimaya) and the last thing I expected was for Forever 21 to utilize this space. Although should I really be surprised? Fifth Avenue is turning into a mini-mall for teenagers... Abercrombie, Hollister on it's way, and a flashy Juicy Couture outpost are just a few of the Fifth Avenue stores scattered between Prada, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Jimmy Choo (which technically is just off of Fifth Avenue).

Forever 21's lease of the space is only for six months and no one seems sure yet how much space Forever 21 is using out of Takashimaya's former eight floors. The pop-up store is to be open by the holiday season, just in time for plenty of teenagers to swarm to the east side of Fifth Avenue, cash in hand, to buy disposable clothing and necklaces for $5.

Right about now I am really missing the refined Tea Box Cafe and the artful floral arrangements!

I don't intend to mock or knock Forever 21. I know many people of all ages love to shop there. However, despite entering Forever 21 on numerous occasions, in multiple locations, I have never purchased anything there other than I think a trendy necklace for a photo shoot. I work mere blocks from the Times Square five-floor flagship and I haven't found the willpower to enter it. I curiously walked into a Forever 21 in a mall this past weekend, and immediately left after looking at a few racks of painfully trendy clothing being carelessly pawed by girls half my age.

I therefore decided to test myself... could i find three items on the Forever 21 website that I might want to wear?

The winners:

Suedette Patch Dress - $27.80. This could be a decent party dress, although it seems just too short for work. It also includes the ever-so-80's shoulder pads, but they don't seem too massive.

Hello Kitty Foil Tee - $14.80. I cannot turn down a good Hello Kitty tee... although I already own one (confession!!!).

Heritage 1981 Lace Overlay Cardigan -$22.90. It's cute and vintage-looking.

Readers: How do you feel about Forever 21?

Modcloth + Payless = Infinite Cuteness

2010-09-26T21:44:00.001-04:00

I often scour the internet for adorable dresses, preferably those that ring of a more vintage/retro style. Modcloth is one of my favorite sites for this never-ending hunt. New clothing is added daily and buyers add honest reviews. I like to think of Modcloth as the "poor man's" Anthropologie (and I don't mean that in a derogatory way), because you can score plenty of cute dresses and cardigans for under $50.

I was on Modcloth about two weeks ago when I spotted the above adorable dress (the Style Legacy Dress, which costs under $50). It was sold out in my size, so I set up a notification alert just in case my size came back in stock. Lo and behold, it did! That is, of course, until someone else beat me to it. I really thought this dress was lost forever.

Then, just a few days ago, I was aimlessly wandering around modcloth and decided, on a whim, to check the "back in stock" section. And my beloved dress was back in stock. I did not hesitate to purchase it.

Obviously I cannot review what I have not yet received, but going by the other reviews for this dress (not necessarily all positive by the way) I have a feeling I am going to love it. Remember, not every negative review you read means it will be a negative for you -- for example, someone who is 6 inches taller than me complained that the dress was too short, but that probably means that the length of the dress will be exactly as I want.

Hint for online dress shopping: Not sure if a dress will be too short or long? Go into your closet and take out your two or three favorite dresses, and measure the entire length. Your favorite dresses probably fall within a few inch range, and therefore you now know what length you should look for in dresses online. My favorite dresses fall from 35-39 inches without fail. If I see a dress I think is cute but it is 33 inches, I do not purchase it. Modcloth always gives dress lengths in the sizing section for each dress.

I also found myself browsing in a Payless this weekend (which often happens when the bank is directly across the street from Payless). My shoe collection is an interesting one; Manolos and Diors are stored right next to bargain basement discounts from Marshalls. I care more about fit and use than brand name. Every so often I will check out the Payless offerings. I left empty-handed a few months ago, but not this time! I found two cute pairs of mary janes and opted for the pair with the slightly lower three-inch heel. At only $19.99, I think they were quite a steal.

I love the plaid pattern, the rounded toe, and the slightly chunky heel of this shoe. They actually remind me of a designer pair from Bergdorf Goodman I bought a few years ago and wore to the point of collapse.

Do you have any stores (whether online or not) that you love for cheap finds?

Find modcloth clothing here:

modcloth

Gap Flash Sale - Noon to 3pm Today Only

2010-09-25T10:02:00.000-04:00

If you are a fan of Gap jeans, or if you ever wanted an excuse to try them, take advantage of today's in-store only flash sale!

3 HOURS ONLY!

Get 50% off all jeans for men, women, kids, and baby. 12-3pm, Saturday, September 25, in stores only. To redeem, say "Flash" to cashier upon checkout.

I confess, I have never worn a pair of Gap jeans in my life (call me a jean snob if you must) but I am digging these Perfect Boot Jeans. I also have my Groupon coupon for $50 worth of Gap merchandise (seriously, if you haven't joined Groupon yet, do it already), and I conveniently happen to be brunching two blocks away from a very large Gap store.

Free Buxom Mascara - a Tiny Friday Post

2010-09-24T18:56:00.001-04:00

Bare Escentuals makes the "Buxom Lash" mascara. I have used this mascara before, and while it won't replace my current favorites, a freebie is a freebie is a freebie.

Follow this link to print out your own coupon to receive a free Buxom mascara. The caveat? You can only redeem this coupon at a Sephora inside a JCPenney. The offer is valid until October 22, 2010 (or while supplies last). I will actually be near a JCPenney tomorrow that I know has a Sephora inside, and my printout of this coupon is already tucked inside my purse. If I encounter any problems using the coupon, I will definitely let my readers know about it!

The Grand Return!

2010-09-22T19:54:00.000-04:00

I have been on hiatus. A rather long one, I admit. Over the past few days I have been mulling over whether or not to start blogging again, and today decided that I would definitely do so!

There will be a few -- just a few -- changes. Blog posts will be published at a rate of about two or three a week. I have also decided to focus more on the frugality aspect as well. I have done a terrific job this summer scounting and taking advantage of deals left and right, up and down, and I think we could all benefit from some of my experience in this regard.

Therefore, welcome back to all of my readers!

Now for a tiny piece of information -- GROUPON is one of my favorite money-saving sites. Combine it with Ebates to add more power to your punch. Today features an online deal, which means that you can be in any geographic location and still take advantage of this deal. "And what is this amazing deal?" you all shout. Well, not as amazing as that Gap deal from about a month ago, but still quite nice -- log on to Groupon (or join by clicking here) and go to the Queens, NY page, and you will see a Groupon that gets you $20 worth of drugstore-type products for only $10 at soap.com (free shipping to boot). This site carries boring items, such as mouthwash and paper towels, but it also carries makeup, hair care products, even Chi flat irons! Go forth and purchase... for only a few more hours, as this deal expires at the end of the day.

Secret Weapon: Phyto Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm

2010-06-20T09:07:00.000-04:00

Quite a long product name, don't you think!?!?

A few years ago the fashion magazines were all touting the magical properties of Phyto's Phytodefrisant Botanical Hair Relaxing Balm. The product does not get much in the way of press anymore, at least in my opinion, but it is a top seller at Sephora (and probably at many other places as well). If you know me in real life, and you've seen me in a more natural state regarding hair, you know that I have frizzy and unruly curly/wavy hair that does whatever it wants, whenever it wants to do it. But I can control my hair (to a reasonably degree, let's be honest here) by applying this ONE product before blow-drying and using my straightener for a few seconds to tame the kinks that refuse to blow out properly.

I didn't always love this product. I think my earlier dismissal of the balm was because I did not use it properly. I used to use about a dime-sized amount, spread it through my hair, and then styled. This, of course, is not what you are supposed to do! Now I use a dime-to-quarter-sized amount, spread through my hair, comb my hair, and then use an addition dime-sized amount and spread/comb that through as well. Then I haphazardly blow-dry for about 5 minutes (quite a feat in itself given that I have long-ish frizzy/curly hair) while using a brush to tame, and finish off by running a medium-heat straightener over the most annoying pieces for a few seconds. I of course spend more time on my hair if I am going somewhere other than work or weekend errands, but it is rather nice to be able to transform my hair from curly insanity (which I do love, but not every single day) into something a touch more sleek and professional.

The balm is plant-based and has Sephora's "Natural Seal." The description says it has a cumulative effect, meaning that the more you use it, the better your hair gets. I have no way of personally testing if this claim is true, but I do love the daily results enough to continue using this product even if there is no actual cumulative effect. I also use this finishing cream (just a dab or two depending on humidity), to be reviewed in a separate post.

Have you used any Phyto products? What do you think? I haven't used anything else from the line so I would love to know your thoughts.

I also have more than 150 followers! Perhaps I should do a giveaway soon...

A Cheap Bikini to the Rescue

2010-06-17T19:39:00.000-04:00

Picture this... You are leaving for a lovely vacation in three days and you realize that your favorite bikini (similar to this one) has gone missing. You tear apart every nook and cranny in the apartment, dig through bags and suitcases and pick apart each dresser drawer. Alas, your favorite bikini seems to have grown some legs and walked away.

After a few frantic moments, you calm down and consider your options. You can pack some one-piece suits and buy a replacement bikini when you arrive to your vacation destination. But you will mostly likely be stuck shopping in the hotel gift shop, where suits are sure to be expensive.

I was faced with this situation right before I left for Mexico. I decided to find the cheapest bikini on the Victoria's Secret website and pay an absurd amount for overnight delivery.

I ordered this sliding triangle top and string bottom in Blue Tiger. The sale is still happening -- $6.99 per piece. You cannot get much more affordable than that! The fit was perfectly adequate for vacation purposes and the overnight shipping actually cost more than the entire suit! The Blue Tiger print is also extremely cute.

Side note: I also ordered this Triangle Bikini Set in bright pink. I didn't take it with me on vacation because the fit was not terrific for me, but I still need to return it.

And wouldn't you know it, as I was packing five hours before needing to head to the airport, I found my favorite bikini... wrapped in a shirt and shoved in the bottom drawer of my dresser. Why I decided to put it there is a complete mystery. But I did wear both suits on vacation and will continue to wear both this summer!

Ideeli Review

2010-06-16T00:05:00.000-04:00

Even though I have been blogging less frequently, I decided to jump on tonight and write a short post about my order from Ideeli. In my prior post (click here), I discussed the Vertigo Paris top I ordered from Ideeli and what an amazing deal I received ($18, including shipping, for a $160 top!).

I came home today to discover a massive package from Ideeli being held by the doorman. I couldn't imagine why Ideeli felt the need to ship my tiny shirt in a box large enough to hold a pair of Hunter Wellies! I opened the box and discovered why -- Ideeli shipped the shirt on the hanger, perfectly packaged, with nary a wrinkle to be found. How absolutely terrific of Ideeli to do this!

I immediately tried on the shirt and fell in love. The colors are vibrant, the sash is the perfect length, and the sleeves have just the perfect touch of puff. The shirt will look stunning with a black skirt, jeans, or even a summery denim skirt!

If you need an invite to Ideeli, click here (I am now a major fan of this site!).

I've also recently purchased and received a Modern Amusement dress from Modnique -- a review will be forthcoming!

Designer Focus: Vertigo Paris

2010-06-05T15:07:00.000-04:00

I own several Vertigo Paris items, but they are all in the back recesses of my closet and I have essentially forgotten about them... until Ideeli ran a Vertigo Paris sale just a few days ago. This is my first time ordering something from Ideeli so I will review my experience in a few weeks (but so far it is a good experience, don't fret! Click here to join Ideeli, or click here to join a variety of other online sample sale sites).

I ordered this "Jungle Leaf" cotton button-down top with sash for $18 ($160 retail price, $43 Ideeli cost including shipping, and then I applied a $25 credit for a final cost of $18 including shipping). Sorry that the picture is slightly fuzzy...

I think that the Vertigo Paris brand does not get the love and attention it deserves. There are several US store locations, including one on 60th Street in NYC. Many of the pieces are very tailored and in work-appropriate styles. One of my favorite pieces in my closet is a very structured chocolate brown blazer -- it just screams power and professionalism.

But Vertigo Paris also has a playful side, as evidenced by my recent purchase. This top will look terrific with both a black (or even brown or navy) skirt for work and with a crisp pair of jeans for the weekend.

If you are interested in finding Vertigo Paris items, and you do not live near one of the store locations (or want to save some dough), I suggest you do the following:

1) Sign up for the online sample sales sites -- Vertigo Paris does pop up every so often.

2) Skim the racks at your local Marshalls, TJ Maxx, Filene's Basement, etc. I have found Vertigo Paris items on the racks of such discount stores.

3) Check out ebay (click here for a direct link to all Vertigo Paris ebay items) -- at last check, there were over 600 Vertigo Paris items for sale, with over 200 items currently selling for less than $30 each. This can be a bit hit-or-miss, but it is always worth a look in my opinion!

What do you think of Vertigo Paris? Do you own any items?

The Negligence Of It All

2010-06-03T00:49:00.000-04:00

I know, I know. I am most negligent in posting! I have a beautiful Vertigo Paris shirt to show (bought for about 85% off retail from Ideeli once a store credit was taken into account), vacation pictures to exhibit, and stories to tell. I haven't commented on anyone's blogs for about two weeks and I have performed no blog maintenance whatsoever myself. Oops.

But I've been tired, and I decided a few evenings watching television would be a better use of my time. So be it.

I am toying around with changing my usual daily posting format, and moving to more of a two or three times a week scheme. Thoughts? Feedback is always appreciated.

I have actually accomplished one internet-related thing -- I posted six items for sale on ebay here. I started to clean out my closet for REAL this time. I cannot even describe the things I am finding tucked away back there. But they will eventually make their merry little way off to the great wide world of ebay over the course of the summer.

A sampling of the goods (if you have a size 6 or 6 1/2 foot, lucky you!):

Stuart Weitzman shoes (never worn, with box)

Marc Jacobs shoes (never worn, with box)

Joan and David shoes (never worn, with box)

White House Black Market skirt (new with tags)

And I'm Back!

2010-05-30T01:05:00.000-04:00

Hopefully I will be able to start posting again regularly tomorrow... a vacation recap with some photos will be sure to come in the next few days!

Shortest post ever.

Hola from Acapulco!

2010-05-27T13:36:00.000-04:00

This is just a short mid-vacation post from the sunny beaches of Acapulco! My husband and I are having a wonderful time (especially after a hotel upgrade to what we assume is some sort of honeymoon suite, including a jacuzzi tub in the bedroom, a separate kitchen and living room, and a terrace with a plunge pool).

I will post picture when I return. We have taken in some wonderful sights, eaten some terrific food and done a lot of serious laying-around-the-pool-and-doing-nothing.

I want to give a special shout-out to Aveeno´s SPF 70 for the face. I have been using it as my daily face moisturizer every morning and my skin is literally untouched by the sun, and, in fact, my skin seems clearer as the week progresses! What a terrific product.

I would write more, of course, but I merely decided to pop into the business center while my husband buys touristy things like postcards and magnets. I hope everyone is enjoying their week and I look forward to resuming my regular posting when I return!

Vamanos a la Playa

2010-05-22T00:36:00.000-04:00

I will be beaching it up for the next week and will try to post if possible... but you know how the ocean seems to just get in the way.

I write this just after midnight, with the car coming to pick me up for the airport in a scant five hours from now. And, as usual, I am packing at the last minute.

Have a great week! Hopefully I will post a few travel updates during the course of the coming week.

Bargain-Basement Vera Wang on Ruelala

2010-05-20T21:57:00.003-04:00

Today was a day full of glory, my readers. I usually resist the temptation of online sample sales, but today was "Act II" of Ruelala's final sale (effectively, the bargain basement rack of online sample sale shopping).

I grabbed a cup of green tea and decided to take a five minute break from work and check out the sale. I wasn't really looking for anything in particular, merely browsing, but I like to keep my eyes open for highly discounted shoes, cardigans, button-down shirts and cute tops for weekends and parties. Let me repeat -- HIGHLY DISCOUNTED -- I am budgeting, you know!

I first checked out the shoes, where I found these adorable Halston sandals marked from $795 to $99. I honestly contemplated buying them for a minute, until I remembered that I budget myself $200 a month for clothes, shoes, and other "me" purchases, so I moved on.

I must say, I showed great restraint on my part, because the "old" shopaholic me would have definitely bought them.

I also loved these Casadei electric blue suede peep-toe pumps (as I write this, there are still two pairs left!) marked from $795 to $219.

I thought the Michael Kors offerings were pretty nice as well, especially this navy jersey ruched dress marked from $995 to $189.

However, it was the Vera Wang boutique that eventually caught my attention. I initially stopped at this lavender label navy silk dress marked from $445 to $79.

I also contemplated buying this Vera Wang blue satin tank, but decided to look for something that showed a bit more neck and chest.

Then I spotted this Vera Wang navy stretch tank with a square neckline and a back zipper (and a few sizes are still available!) marked from $295 to $39.

Oh, and did I mention I had a $20 store credit? I paid approximately $29, including shipping, for a beautiful Vera Wang top.

If you still need an invite to Ruelala, click here.

If you need an invite to other sample sale sites, click here to go to my Online Sample Sale Site page.

And if you just want to peruse some Vera Wang, click below!

vera wang

A Weekend Whirlwind through Philadelphia and Miami

2010-05-19T21:30:00.000-04:00

I spent this past weekend dashing around both Philadelphia and Miami! Just to warn you, this is a photo-centric post.

The weekend began on Friday, when my husband and I drove from NYC to Philadelphia for an ivy-covered college reunion fiesta.

Driving down the West Side Highway to the Lincoln Tunnel. I used to live in one of those buildings...

Almost at the tunnel!

It's always sunny in Philadelphia.

Philadelphia from a distance.

Sneakin' around inside the freshman quad area (we also snuck inside, and might I say that I feel sorry for the freshmen because their bathroom facilities are rather substandard...). So typically ivy! My husband told me where to stand to take the best shot possible.

More ivy goodness.

This was a reunion fiesta done right. I could have taken photos of the many toppling displays of food, the open bar, the blue and red martinis, the musicians, etc. but I obviously am a chocoholic and left the event with photos of the chocolate table. I saw the chocolate fountain (with churros, brownies and marshmallows for dipping) from an entirely different floor -- I can sniff that stuff out, let me tell you -- and immediately ran over. They even had blueberry chocolate and chocolate-covered edamame! We also attended a bbq the following afternoon.

Then, all of a sudden, it was Saturday afternoon, and it was time to head to the Philadelphia airport for my flight to Miami.

My flight was delayed because the original plane had some sort of lighting malfunction. After trying for 30 minutes to fix it, the airline gave up and told us that in a mere two hours, a new plane would be arriving and we could take that to Miami instead. So we suffered through a delay that was nearly just as long as the flight itself, and then boarded our new plane. Except that as I was about the cross the threshold from the walkway to the plane, the staff decided that all overhead compartments were full and everyone from me and behind had to check carry-on suitcases. Yippee.

Oh, and when I got on the plane the overhead compartments were clearly NOT all full.

So we flew to Miami. We received drinks, but no snacks. Not even a teeny tiny bag of peanuts or pretzels!

And now it gets even wilder...

When we touched down on the runway, we stopped and proceeded to stay on the runway. The pilot came on the loudspeaker to let us know that while we were in mid-flight, some wing-flap thing malfunctioned and therefore we were being met by firetrucks as a precaution. More yippee.

FINALLY, at about 11:30pm, I had my suitcase and was picked up by my parents. That whole night was pretty shot.

The next morning included a tasty breakfast buffet (is there such a thing as a breakfast buffet that is not tasty?) and some relaxing my the pool. Then it was off to my sister's graduation from law school, and, after that, a wonderful dinner by the ocean.

The view from my seat at dinner.

The palm trees above our dinner table.

Just a nice water shot.

And that concluded the weekend. On Monday morning I was tossed from peaceful slumber at 4:30am and boarded a ridiculously early flight back to NYC.

Report from the Trenches of the Massive Anthropologie Sale

2010-05-19T00:12:00.000-04:00

Exactly one week ago I wrote a small blurb about the upcoming massive Anthropologie sale (click here for the original post). I was able to drop by the sale, which began today, at the Rock Center store location earlier in the day. I cannot proclaim to have been overly impressed -- I recognized many of the items on the sale racks as having already been on sale for weeks, and there were just a few extra racks on new items.

I did spot the Optical Illusion dress, now marked down to $49.95 from $188, which I tried on rather recently and included in this Fitting Room Follies blog post. If only I had loved it on me as much as some of my readers seemed to love it on me...

The Optical Illusion dress on me

I also found plenty of these Scalloped Sailor Skirts on the racks. I own a very similar skirt already, just in a darker denim, and I wear the skirt in place of jeans during the summer and when on vacation. I didn't need another one so I didn't try it on!

Scalloped Sailor Skirt

Another item on the racks was the silk Stamped Tulips Tank. They were all really wedged together, but when I pulled one out for a closer inspection I realized how beautiful the pattern was. My inspection also caught the attention of a girl shopping a few feet away and she came over to grab one as well.

Stamped Tulips Tank

Additionally, I recall seeing this adorable Ring of Roses Tank (the flowers around the neckline caught my eye) marked down to $39.95, this Tree Poppy Tank (half price!), this Serengeti Sundress (also half price, with bright and tropical-feeling batik zebra stripes) and this Arribada Current Dress (sea turtles on silk chiffon!).

Although I didn't find much that I wanted to try on, I DID make two purchases. I bought this Pure and Good Basic Ribbed Tank in a dusty rose/brown color and also in navy. Those particular colors aren't even showing up on the website as I write this, so perhaps each store has different colors. Each tank was marked from $24 to $9.95. I always buy two tanks at the start of each summer to wear on weekends, so I felt that it was inevitable that I would be buying similar tanks in the next few weeks anway and these were certainly frugal-friendly.

Pure and Good Basic Ribbed Tank

Did you check out the sale yet? What did you think?

How To: Buying Clothing on Ebay (Part I)

2010-05-17T21:08:00.001-04:00

I was planning on eventually rolling out a series of some "buying on Ebay tips," and now that I have been mentioned in Corporette's comments (thanks, Shayna!), I have decided that there is no time like the present.

If you read my "How To: Shop an Online Sample Sale" post, you will note that many of my tips noted in this series will be similar. This is because you should utilize the same tools in buying online in one format (sample sales) versus another (Ebay).

The first tip? KNOW YOUR SIZE.

Here is what I have already said in my prior post:
"Nothing is more frustrating than seeing a terrific and heavily discounted item of clothing that you would love to have in your wardrobe, and then hesitating and eventually backing out because you are not sure if the item will fit. I am anywhere from a size 0 to a size 8 depending on the designer, clothing style, etc. so I cannot blindly assume I am a size 0 in everything if I buy it online. Therefore, know your size as to each designer. If you see that Joe's Jeans, for example, are coming up on sale in two days, and you would like to purchase a pair, head to a local store and try on Joe's Jeans and learn your size. If you see that Tracy Reese dresses are coming up on sale, try a few on and learn your size. Then, when the sale for that particular item begins, you do not need to waste time worrying about which size to order."

I offer a few additional tips based on personal experience.

First, know which designers size consistently. For example, I am without fail the same size in Banana Republic dresses, skirts and button-down shirts, making it quite simple to shop online. Unfortunately, another favorite store, Reiss UK, has less consistent sizing and I will never be able to confidently buy something online without having tried on the exact item in the store. I know I can purchase Theory shirts online, but not skirts or pants. This is a product of dressing room trial and error.

Second, know which designers you want to search for on a weekly basis on Ebay and learn your size in all clothing styles offered by that designer (shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, jackets, etc.). Feel free to go to a store and try on many different styles of that designer's clothing, and record your sizes in a notebook if necessary. You can refer to your own personal size chart when you see an item on Ebay you love.

Third, know which sizes in certain styles are "adjustable." For example, when buying a wrap dress, I can go up a size or down a size. I can also go up a size in certain styles of jackets. This is useful, because you may see the "perfect" wrap dress but it is one size larger than your general size. Now you know you can bid on it anyway.

Fourth, narrow down your Ebay search to only return results in your size. You cannot be tempted by what you cannot see.

Can you offer any examples where knowing your size in advance turned out to be useful? Or when not knowing your size backfired?

And finally, my latest Ebay acquisition...

I run weekly searches for DVF dresses. The majority of dresses wind up selling for at least twice of what I am willing to pay, but every once in a while, something falls through the cracks. In this case, I feel that the reason the dress did not attract any bidders was due to a bad photo.

The Ebay photo.

I read the dress description anyway (size two, slightly below knee-length, yada yada yada) and as I scrolled down the listing, saw a few more buried photos. Most were also rather unflattering, but one showed the side of the dress and a close-up of the pattern. I decided that this dress certainly had potential and given that I paid about $17 for it (including shipping), it was worth the risk of winding up with a dress I didn't like.

Well, I received the dress in the mail today. And I LOVE it! There is a lovely waist tie that wasn't even shown in any of the photos, a terrific wrap shape, and such light and breezy fabric.

My own photo of the dress, complete with bad lighting.

What a difference a photo makes!

Side note: My weekend travels went well (except for that bit about when my plane landed in Miami and we were met by firetrucks on the runway due to a malfunctioning flap-something-or-other as a precaution)! I will post a few photos either tomorrow or Wednesday. Please also disregard all grammatical errors, boring writing, etc. in this post, because I had to wake up at 4:30am today and therefore coherency may not be my strong point right now!

Extra side note: Don't forget about tomorrow's giant Anthropologie sale!

Cubicle Chic Launch Party

2010-05-13T23:23:00.000-04:00

The bloggers behind Cubicle Chic invited me to their launch party at the uber-trendy M1-5 Lounge in Tribeca. Delicious snacks were provided by Once Upon a Tart (I munched on a few petite madeleines while chatting with fellow bloggers).

This post is very short -- I have to be dressed up and in the car in about seven hours from now, and with a packed suitcase (not yet started) to boot. I may be blogging from the road this weekend.

And by "road," I mean anywhere from the Upper East Side to Philadelphia to Miami. In 72 hours. Three different airports. Two hotels. And perhaps a frat party! It will be so very very interesting...

A photo of the launch party... I climbed up on a bench to take this in a tight dress! Thankfully I am athletic.

I spent some time chatting with stylist A. Lopez (may I use your full name, A.? Leave me a comment if you would like), the blogger behind Adentro Style, one of the rare style blogs geared towards men. He writes his posts in both English and Spanish and I will definitely be checking his blog out after my weekend of non-stop travel!

Two Special Deals, Budget Talk and Eye Candy

2010-05-12T22:22:00.000-04:00

First up, special deals for readers! I recently blogged about my love of Queen Helene's Mint Julep Mask and Malia Mills swimsuits. Queen Helene was kind enough to send along this coupon link for $1 off any product, and Carol Mills was incredibly generous in providing $50 -- yes, you read that right, FIFTY DOLLARS -- off any Malia Mills purchase online or at any store simply by mentioning Deconstructed Life!

(Tangent, and adorable story - I put on my Mint Julep Mask a few nights ago, and just as it was hardening up, my cell phone rang. I attempted to talk to my mom without moving my face, at which point my husband started laughing hysterically at my frozen green face, called me an alien and wanted to know if that was the "mothership" on the phone. Funny, funny, right. After my call, he asked why I was doing a facial, to which I replied, "to look beautiful." His response? "But you already look beautiful." You may now commence your gushing...)

I sometimes post about my health, beauty and fashion budget, and I must acknowledge that this month has been rather tough. I started off the month by getting a $72 haircut and blowout, which put quite a dent in my $200 clothing/misc. category. Luckily (?), I have such curly, unruly hair that haircuts are only necessary three to four times a year.

I only purchased a few items on ebay, but after adding that to money spent on books and some essentials at Strawberry (two camisoles, a pair of leggings and a pair of shorts), I find myself getting precariously close to my $200 limit -- and we are not even halfway through the month! And this doesn't even include a Target run for various health/toiletry items (which, as you may recall, fortunately falls into a separate budget category).

I was forced to make a $20 purchase at Target that I had anticipated making in June... new yoga pants. I washed my yoga pants this past weekend and noticed that a seam was in bad shape. Such bad shape, in fact, that I felt like wearing them to Saturday's pilates class might be a VERY bad idea. I couldn't be too upset, because I had bought the pants ages ago and wore them quite frequently. Of course, while I was at Target buying the pants, I picked up a new sports bra. That was another anticipated June purchase that I pushed up. No pun intended.

I also managed to destroy another pair of pants in the laundry this weekend. I wear these comfortable Juicy sweatpants as pajama bottoms each night. Somehow the drawstring managed to fray just enough in the laundry that the drawstring broke entirely when I went to tie it. I was unable to fish the rest of the drawstring though the pants (believe me, I tried for a ridiculously long time), and thus have concluded that the pants may be gone forever after what seemed like years of use. But all is not lost... shopaholic that I am/was, I bought a second pair of identical Juicy pants when I bought that first pair. So I had a brand-new pair sitting in the closet! Crisis averted.

For some eye candy... I received my newest Ebay acquisition in the mail two days ago -- another Charlotte Tarantola cardigan, this time black with a leopard lining. I can't wait to wear it! I don't think the photo does it justice in the slightest.

This is yet another great Ebay purchase. The cardigan is brand new, with tags still attached showing the retail price of $150. I paid about $30 with shipping. I intend to wear it over dresses this summer to ward off the arctic office chill. This exact cardigan is still available in the cream color for only $75, large size only (click here).

Swimsuit Suit Up

2010-05-11T23:51:00.000-04:00

If there is one thing I do not lack, it is swim suits. Skimpy bikinis, athletic bikinis, racing suits, retro suits, you name it, I own it.

My vast collection of racing suits comes from the many years I spent as a competitive swimmer. I am eternally comfortable in a nice racerback Speedo, worn three sizes too small to prevent drag (competitive swimmers will understand what I mean here), even if my present-day "drag" consists merely of lessening air resistance as I book it from my beach towel to the water without burning my feet on the sand.

I also have a great selection of Malia Mills bikinis. I love the Malia Mills line of suits because they sell the tops and bottoms as separates, with tops sold by bra size. The separates are admittedly pricey, but my oldest Malia Mills suit is about five years old and shows very little wear, so you might consider this suit to be an investment. If you live in NYC, put yourself on the Malia Mills email list, because they do have sample sales.

My two newest suits are a lacy, retro-style Betsey Johnson halter top bikini and a very colorful string bikini purchased from a random surf shop in South Beach. I bought the Betsey Johnson suit for my honeymoon. I saw the string bikini in the window of the surf shop as our car drove by on the way to our hotel in Miami, and I knew I needed to buy it!

I know that not every woman is like me, running around with carefree abandon on the beach or by the pool. I have cellulite and icky veins, but I just ignore them and do my own thing, and wear whatever makes me happy. I actually look my best in a string bikini, even though logic and common sense might initially dictate otherwise. But the skimpy cut and ties on the bottom seem to elongate my legs and one cannot argue with that!

What kind of suits do you typically wear? Are you in the hunt for a new suit for the summer season?

I spent some time this evening looking up a few suits that caught my eye and were worthy of this blog post. Enjoy!

This DSQUARED2 Bikini is very similar to my surf-shop bikini (except mine cost less than $50). Sometimes it pays to just ignore the brand and go for what looks exciting!

This Betsey Johnson bikini is similar to my lace bikini, except for the bow detailing (and, of course, the pattern). I find Betsey Johnson tops to be very supportive, despite not often having underwire, and the bottoms provide sufficient coverage.

If you are looking for something with a bit more coverage yet still a very feminine style, try this Victoria's Secret tankini top by Magicsuit. The halter strap is removable and the top has some side boning for support. If your stomach is the bane of your existence, you can use this tankini to simultaneously play up your assets while covering and shaping the rest. Some side ruching may also help in providing midsection definition, even if none exists in reality.

I always keep a traditional athletic suit around. I love the bright colors and thin straps of this Tyr suit.

Little Birdies Whisper of a Massive Anthropologie Sale...

2010-05-11T19:13:00.000-04:00

I cannot neglect to post about this important piece of information. In Pursuit of Pretty Things noted today that the Anthropologie Spring sale (one of two large sales held every year) may be starting next Tuesday, May 18th. They report that over 1,000 items will be moved to the sale racks! They heard this news from a "very credible source."

Start warming up your engines.

Maybe the orange dress I featured in yesterday's post will be on sale!

Fitting Room Follies: Anthropologie Spring Items

2010-05-10T20:19:00.000-04:00

Needless to say, I work pretty darn close to an Anthropologie, which is why so many "Fitting Room Follies" posts take place in those spacious fitting rooms with excellent lighting. I stopped in last week to survey the latest selection of dresses, tanks and skirts, and decided to try a few on for fun.

(P.S. I've actually gone ahead and posted an item on my Blog Sale page! I will post more eventually, but I wanted to sort of run with a test item at first... instead of selling directly from my blog, I am linking up to my Ebay sale. I will see how this format works and will decide if anything needs to change in the future. Comments appreciated, as long as they're constructive!)

(P.P.S. Where does Anthropologie get clothing names? Some are just so unusual. Do they have a group of name brainstormers that sit around all day and play with the dictionary and create wacky combinations? I tried on this Cooling Magma dress, for example, but the photo is not shown below because it came out all blurry.)

Orange Blossom Dress (click here) - This Moulinette Soeurs dress was light, bright and flowy, everything you want in a summer dress. I sort of didn't want to take it off!

Mellifluous Miscellany Tank (click here) - I really liked this tank. I thought the cut and pattern were both interesting and the mixture of cotton, silk and viscose was nice. It was a piece that looked great with my black pencil skirt and I am sure would look great with dark jeans. However, the $88 price tag does not jive with my $200/month budget.

Subcontinent Dress (click here) - It looks red, but technically this Floreat dress is actually pink. The smallest size was a tad large on me, but I could still appreciate the cutesy-ness of this dress.

random tank - It was light, it was cute, it was about $50, and try as I might, I cannot find it on the website. I even forgot to note who makes it, so I literally cannot provide any useful information whatsoever. Eh, oops.

random totally awesome Greek-style asymmetric dress - They had a whole rack of these dresses, I felt like Grecian royalty or something fanciful like that, and this isn't on the website either! There is a tie at the waist and one of the shoulder straps ties as well. Why would they have dresses in the store and not on the website? Why, oh why?

Optical Illusion Dress (click here) - This silk and poly Burlapp dress has such a definite vintage feel, don't you agree? Complete with the black flower puff on the waistband! I felt like twirling right into a 1950's sockhop. I am not 100% sold on the figure-flattering factor of this dress, at least on my body type, but it is on sale for under $100 as I write this so if you are seeking a retro-style dress, consider this.

Gilded Lily Skirt (click here) - I loved this Edme & Esyllte cotton and linen bias-cut skirt. It just jumped off the rack into my patiently waiting arms and begged to be brought into the dressing room. The skirt gave me a "pirate" vibe (in a good way) once I tried it on. And $78 for a creative and unique skirt is not so horrible. The black tee is my own.

A close-up of the Gilded Lily Skirt. Ahoy, give me my dagger, matey!

How I Wore It: Eyelet Short Sleeve Shirt

2010-05-10T00:13:00.000-04:00

My husband recently celebrated his birthday, so we went out for dinner at a local Asian fusion restaurant with a few friends. I intended to wear one of my many dresses, leaning towards a Custo Barcelona dress I picked up in Florida about nine months ago, but the weather turned rather foul as the day progressed and I had to change my outfit plans.

I decided to go with a classic black and white ensemble, wearing my new NY and Company eyelet short sleeve shirt in optic white (click here for the post about that shopping trip) with a simple black skirt.

After I put on the outfit, I decided that a pop of color was necessary. I therefore belted the outfit with a red belt, threw on a pair of pearl stud earrings and grabbed a less expensive pair of mary janes just in case it started to rain again.

The eyelet short sleeve shirt in optic white, modeled on my balcony right after I bought it:

And how I wore it recently:

The details:

Shirt: Eyelet short sleeve shirt in optic white from NY and Company (click here for the shirt) (similar style here with long sleeves)

Tank: Victoria's Secret built-in bra top camisole (click here for the camisole 3-pack)

Skirt: Banana Republic stretch cotton skirt (click here for the skirt) (similar style here for under $40)

Belt: Not labeled, but I recall buying it from Macy's years ago (similar style here)

Shoes: Nine West mary janes (similar style here for under $70)

Oh, and Happy Mother's Day!

How I Wore It: Charlotte Tarantola Lace Cardigan

2010-05-08T17:09:00.000-04:00

If you read yesterday's post, you know how excited I was to receive my new Charlotte Tarantola cardigan in the mail, purchased on Ebay for close to 75% off retail price... and I know, because the original tags were still attached.

Why do people buy things they do not need and never wear?

I wish I could figure out the answer to that question, because it might save me a bundle!

I decided to take my new cardigan out for a spin (to work) yesterday, and paired it with a simple tee (see this post for a primer on finding the perfect tee) and one of my many black pencil skirts. The cardigan was extremely soft and comfortable, perfect for a Friday spent behind a desk. This cardigan will obviously be a wardrobe staple in the future.

As a reminder, the cardigan:

And how I wore it (yes, I took this self-photo in an Anthropologie dressing room... but that should tip you off that there is a "Fitting Room Follies" post coming down the pipe!):

The details:

Cardigan: Charlotte Tarantola (similar style here for $26) (another similar style here by Charlotte Tarantola with stripes)

Tee: Aqua for Bloomingdales (similar style here for under $10) (another similar style here) (click here for my "Build a Wardrobe: Perfect Tee" post)

Skirt: Banana Republic (click here for the skirt) (similar style here) (another similar style here)

Shoes (not shown): Manolo Blahnik mary janes (click here for the shoes) (similar style here for under $40)

Purse (not shown): Longchamp Planetes (click here for the purse)

Charlotte Tarantola and Field Flower Cardigans

2010-05-06T20:42:00.000-04:00

I received my Ebay-purchased Charlotte Tarantola cardigan in the mail today and immediately fell in love the second I touched the amazingly soft cotton. Then I saw the original price tag still attached and fell in love a little further, because I paid just a touch over 25% of the retail price. Yes, you read that right -- approximately 75% off for a brand-new Charlotte Tarantola cardigan.

Just in case I wasn't smiling enough, I then remembered that I also purchased, from the same vendor, another Charlotte Tarantola cardigan, the time in plain black. It should arrive early next week and I am sure I will be just as thrilled!

Charlotte Tarantola cardigan (similar style here for $26) (another similar style here by Charlotte Tarantola with stripes)

A few days ago, I received another Ebay-purchased item, this time an adorable sweater/cardigan from Field Flower. I already own a crocheted Field Flower cardigan (white with yellow flowers) that I often wear to work with a black pencil skirt and a black tank underneath. I saw a similar Field Flower cardigan on Ebay, and decided to take the plunge and bid on it. Obviously, I won, and I am glad that I did! I was initially drawn to the adorable flower snap buttons and the interwoven colorful wool. It is a slightly unusual cardigan yet one that I know I will be wearing many times in the future.

Field Flower sweater/cardigan (similar style here) (another similar style here)

I am anxious though to not fall into an Ebay black hole and do nothing but shop via computer for the rest of my life. I therefore stopped into Strawberry before picking up some sushi after work for dinner. Store locations are mainly in New York City, but there is a location in Massachusetts and two in Pennsylvania. I shop at Strawberry for more casual items, such as leggings (current special, $4.99), bra-top tanks (current special, two for $10), and little sundresses (usually under $20) that are not meant to last more than one season. I didn't buy anything, pretty much because I was too hungry to dilly-dally any longer, but I plan on stopping back this weekend for some bra-top tanks and perhaps a pair of bejeweled-style flip flops.

Secret Weapon/Product Review: Queen Helene Mint Julep Mask

2010-05-05T21:05:00.000-04:00

I pride myself in having a few secret beauty weapons. They more or less fall under the definition of "old school" and are all very affordable. The first of my secret weapons is the Queen Helene Mint Julep Mask. I use it as a mask... and then some.

This link takes you to Sally Beauty Supply for ordering online, but you can also head to your local drugstore (CVS, Walgreens, Duane Reade, Rite Aid, Target or whatever they may have in your part of the country -- I am not sure if this line is carried outside of the U.S.). Stores usually keep Queen Helene products on the lowest shelf, so be sure to check the skincare aisle completely if you don't find it at first. You should be able to find it for about $4 and the tube or jar lasts for an eternity. I personally prefer the tube for sanitary reasons.

I have been using this amazing mask for well over a decade (I suspect closer to the 15-17 year mark). Sometimes I cheat and buy something else, but this mask has always had a place in the medicine cabinet and in my heart... gush.

I have combination/oily skin that is quite sensitive and sometimes prone to rosacea outbreaks. The Mint Julep Mask helps to control oil and dry up acne outbreaks. I simply remove my makeup, spread the green mud-like mask over my face with my fingers, and allow it to dry for about ten minutes. As the mask dries, it hardens, so make sure you don't need to talk on the phone or anything. The mask also feels very refreshing - perfect after a grimy subway ride, for example.

Please Note: You might also want to give your significant other or small children a heads-up that you will be turning into a sea creature in the name of beauty. They might not get scared, but they will make fun of you. Ignore them and carry on.

You will know when the mask needs to come off, trust me. Rinse it off with water (or use a washcloth if you prefer). I find that my skin has tighter-appearing pores and any outbreaks have shrunk down. The mask never irritates my skin or causes a rosacea flare-up.

But the secret use?

Try using the mask as a spot treatment overnight. Just a small, thin layer left on any outbreak overnight helps to shrink that outbreak down. This is particularly useful if you cannot use spot treatments that utilize benzoyl peroxide or salycylic acid. Again, make sure your significant other knows you will be going to sleep with green dots on your face!

Queen Helene makes several other beauty treatments. I recently used the Jojoba Hot Oil Treatment for hair and loved it. Queen Helene also makes several other masks, such as the Olive Oil Mask for dry skin, the Mud Pack Mask for cleaning pores, and the Avocado and Grapefruit Mask for providing a glow.

If you have used the Mint Julep Mask or any other Queen Helene product, please let me know by leaving a comment!

Nine West Sale!

2010-05-05T20:34:00.001-04:00

Nine West just sent me the following (it is rare I do a short, stand-alone post like this, but for a good sale I sometimes do):

Four Days ONLY! Additional 20% off sandals + FREE shipping!

A photo of a Nine West mary jane... because posts without photos are boring.

So there you go. They obviously know I am addicted to Nine West mary janes.

And don't worry, a post with more than two sentences is coming!

Awards, Prizes and Special Mentions

2010-05-04T21:21:00.001-04:00

Other bloggers have been so kind in bestowing awards on my blog... I have saved up a few recent ones for a single post!

I have received:

The Sunshine Award from Jennifer at Books, Recipes and Life, Oh My!

The Oh My Blog Award from Brunch Girls at Brunch at Barneys and Shayna at Life: Forward.

The I Love Your Blog Award from MsHark at Not Just Another Blonde in Beijing.

These awards generally come with rules, such as choosing several other blogs and linking to them. I am taking the lazy-lazy-lazy way out -- simply go to my LINK LOVE page, where I have many blogs listed, and peruse at your leisure.

I also want to give special shout-outs to two bloggers. I recently entered their blog giveaways and won two prizes on the same day -- a MAC eyeshadow from Couture and Crayons and a collection of prizes (including nailpolish and lip gloss) from Not Just Another Blonde in Beijing.

Last but not least, I want to mention Cubicle Chic, another NYC-based blog. They have kindly invited me out for after-work drinks n' snacks! So, ahem, someone out there will know what I look like by the end of next week... I haven't even updated my link love page to include this blog yet, and that is why they are getting a special mention here!

And Wedding Season is Upon Us: The First Wedding!

2010-05-04T00:25:00.000-04:00

Just a few photos of this past weekend's wedding... it was held at the Allegria, a very South Beach-esque hotel directly on the boardwalk in Long Beach, Long Island. My outfit is shown in the last photo.

The Chuppah (under which Jewish couples get married). The ceremony was in a large tent on the beach with flooring and "windows" facing the ocean.

The centerpiece at our table. There were three centerpiece styles -- the large floral centerpiece on our table, three smaller floral arrangements on top of glass columns, and finally these crystal-ish tall decorations. The bride's mother told us that she really wanted to stick to the South Beach/white and modern theme.

The bride and groom listening to speeches. Her dress had a corset back, sweetheart neckline and a belt with a crystal decoration. She wore her hair down, except for a small crystal hairclip.

A shot of the ballroom as everyone searched for their assigned tables.

A close-up of a table (not ours, actually the table at which my mother and father-in-law were seated).

A random guest... the invite called for "black-tie suggested" and no one seemed to have any problems finding attire. Most male guests wore either tuxes or black suits, and most female guests wore black or darker dresses, with a few in brighter colors or sequins yet formal designs. This guest, sitting in the row behind us, was wearing a terrific, yet much too short and casual, Pucci dress with a Missoni sweater to ward off the imaginary chill (it was close to 90 degrees earlier in the day).

And finally, my outfit! Not the best photo, but what can you do?

Dress: Badgley Mischka (featured in this post) (similar style here) (another similar style here)

Clutch: Lord and Taylor (featured in this post) (similar style here for under $61) (a bank-busting similar style here for under $1,400!)

Shoes: Nine West (similar style here - with a lower heel) (another similar style here)

Necklace (hard to see): Swarovski Gillian Y-Necklace (click here) (similar style here for $21)

Earrings (not visible): Pearl studs (similar style here) (another similar style here for $40)

My Frugal Frugal Makeup/Clothing/Misc. Budget

2010-05-03T00:06:00.000-04:00

These are frugal times, or so they say. My husband and I decided to embrace frugality recently (well, to the extent that two lawyers living in NYC can fathom) and set an extensive budget.

How extensive?

Contact lenses have a line item. Pilates classes have a line item. Eating out with friends is a separate line item from our own personal eating out budget. Home decorating is a line item, post office costs are a line item, oil changes for the car are a line item, and it goes on and on.

We instituted our budget in time for April. On Saturday, May 1st, we sat down and tallied up each line item and were impressively right on target in almost every category.

I am sure you don't care much about how much we spent on groceries or ordering in food, whether we took the car to get washed or bought tickets to see a concert. What you probably do care about is my makeup/clothing/misc. budget and how I stuck to it, and more importantly, how this Manolo-loving Bergdorf Goodman-addicted woman succeeded and came in UNDER BUDGET for clothing and toiletries collectively while not sacrificing one iota. Trust me, I am as shocked as you.

The details:

I allotted $200 for my clothing/misc. purchases (misc. covers anything from manicures, to bookstore purchases, to my addiction to the delicious Japanese snack called Pocky). My husband has his own clothing/misc. category. We also have a combined $140 for toiletries/hair/makeup products (obviously the makeup and beauty products are mostly mine, but this also needs to cover joint items like paper towels, toothpaste and shower soap, and boy-specific items like shaving cream). We are also allowing rollover - this allows for "saving up" for larger purchases or for going on a "shopping spree" once in a while (even the best of us are not immune).

The results:

We came in slightly over budget by a scant $11 in the toiletries category. This was entirely my fault, because Sephora had that lovely 15% off sale. However, I only bought items that I use repeatedly, and have a stockpile of several items which I now will not need to purchase this month at all (click here to read about my Sephora purchases).

Skin Care by Clinique
Brushes & Applicators by clarisonic

I came in under budget by a touch more than $26 in my clothing/misc. category, and I never felt like I sacrificed at all in shopping. I just changed the methods by which I shopped. I can barely wrap my mind around how I only spent $174 dollars for the entire month of April, less than the cost of the Ann Taylor dress I purchased in March (and that was just one of many purchases).

The breakdown:

1) I took advantage of the New York and Co. 50% off storewide sale at the start of the month (click here for the original post). For $35.90, I bought two button-down short-sleeve shirts and some jewelry.

2) I made stops at both Barnes and Noble and Borders, purchasing several books and a discounted at-home pilates kit (click here to read about pilates). My cost? $32.65.

3) I purchased a domain name, just in case I ever want it for this blog, for $10.

4) I also "discovered" Ebay (click here for the original post and to see my first purchase, a DVF top). All of the following prices include shipping charges. In addition to my DVF top for $18.49, I also purchased a brand-new silk knit sleeveless top for $7.98 by White House Black Market, a Banana Republic striped tee for $4.50, a Limited floral tank for $4.50, a brand-new Anna Sui silk wrap dress for $26.67, and a brand-new Charlotte Tarantola gray cardigan with black lace accents for $32.99. I therefore bought all of this loot for less than the original retail price of the Charlotte Tarantola cardigan. All will eventually be featured in "How I Wore It" posts.

May is going to be a bit tricky. I had to get a haircut, and decided to get a blowout for Saturday night's wedding, which cost $72 with all tips. I also purchased on Ebay today an adorable Field of Flowers sweater and another Charlotte Tarantola cardigan, so I have already spent in the neighborhood of $130. But I do have some rollover to play with, and I don't need many more items for my summer wardrobe (perhaps a new pair of sandals, another dress or two for work and another casual top for weekends).

So there you have it, an explanation of the budget and how I did this past month! If you have any questions, feel free to leave them in the comments section or to email me at deconstructedlife@gmail.com.

And Wedding Season is Upon Us, Part V (Purse Finale)

2010-04-29T21:42:00.000-04:00

It's the second purse parade post! (Click here for my prior post.)

Why do we all love purses? Is it because on matter how much weight we gain or lose, they always "fit"? Or is because one tiny and cheap clutch with sequins can take a boring outfit from blah to amazing? Is there a reason you love purses?

In non-purse news... my Ebay experiment is galloping along rather nicely. I have spent less than $100 on Ebay auction items this month and purchased six items, all name-brand, some even new with tags still attached. I will do a complete post on my experiment soon, along with what I have bought and what it cost, but to spark your interest, let's just say that one of my "new with tags" items is a Charlotte Tarantola cardigan... for 75% off retail.

But back to sequins and beads, readers!

Lulu Townsend gold satin clutch (similar style here under $30). I bought this clutch recently (click here for the post in which I bought the gold shoes to wear to the wedding - I also bought this clutch that day but neglected to mention the purchase) to match a gold dress I wore to a wedding in Changsha, China. It has only been used once, so I would love to give it some more play.

Unknown brand sequin and beading pink shoulder bag with beaded strap (similar style here for under $24). This purse was a flea market find (if you want an indoor flea market of 500 stores filled with everything, including an authorized discount Swarovski seller and the best little knishes ever, head to the Festival Flea Market in Pompano Breach, Florida).

Bloomingdales brand sequined blue purse (similar style here for under $21). This bag looks slightly more beat-up and "loved" than the others because I have owned it for about a decade and have used it dozens of times. I mean, this purse has been out clubbing until 4 a.m., how spiffy is it supposed to look?

Lord and Taylor beaded black clutch (similar style here for under $61) (a bank-busting similar style here for under $1,400!). I already discussed in my prior post the wonderful features of the Lord and Taylor brand clutches. I love this clutch's vintage feel and the very secure clasp. It is also surprisingly roomy.

And Wedding Season is Upon Us, Part IV (Purses!)

2010-04-28T20:55:00.000-04:00

I've done three posts of possible dresses to wear to this season's weddings (click here, here and here), but there has been no focus on accessories. Today's post centers on purses!

Specifically, those adorable little clutches that every woman seems to have dozens of in the closet, despite needing such an elaborate clutch about, oh, five times a year.

Mine tend to revolve around sequins, beading and satin. I am presenting four tonight, and four tomorrow night. I buy my purses in some unusual places, and care more about the look rather than the brand name. I have many more than the eight you will see over the next two days, but I honestly have to draw the line somewhere... right?

Reiss UK satin clutch (similar style here). I purchased this in the Reiss UK store in the West Village for around $50. If you are in the West Village, or by any other Reiss location, definitely pop in -- I have several amazing dresses (just ignore the sizing, it can be rather erratic, and go with what fits) and the coats are to die for.

Unknown brand sequin and embroidery clutch/shoulder bag (similar style here). I bought this purse at Purdy Girl (the location on Thompson in the Village, just below Washington Square Park) for a law school event.

Unknown brand beading and sequins handbag (similar style here). My grandmother bought me this purse at a small boutique in Florida many years ago. It was the purse I was carrying the day I met my husband! The beading is fragile, but the bag is so roomy and perfect for events because it holds about twice as much as your average clutch. I love the butterfly motif and the unusual handles.

Lord and Taylor beaded clutch (similar style here). Lord and Taylor brand clutches are amazing -- they make plenty of styles, the quality is terrific and the prices are very affordable. I have no idea if other Lord and Taylor stores sell these purses, but the Lord and Taylor on Fifth Avenue certainly does.

And Wedding Season is Upon Us, Part III

2010-04-27T20:46:00.001-04:00

More dress parade... in dress parade coma... (click here for Part I, click here for Part II).

Seriously, tomorrow I should post photos of clutches. I have about thirty of them. Why I need thirty plus clutches I will never know.

And don't even get me started on the shoes.

I've also recently bought some very cute items on Ebay, including a silk Anna Sui wrap dress. I am challenging myself - can I outfit myself for the summer via Ebay for a fraction of what I would normally spend? When I receive my Ebay packages I will of course try on everything and have my husband snap a few photos for my readers.

Betsey Johnson crushed velvet dress with lace detailing at the flutter sleeves, tie waist and bottom (similar style here) (another similar style here for $52) (a bank-busting and lovely similar style here). I found this dress at a Betsey Johnson outlet store and picked it up for under $100 as an impulse purchase. It has never been worn to an event! Oops. I love this dress but don't think it is suitable for Saturday's wedding.

Badgley Mischka lightweight crushed velvet print dress with beaded straps (similar style here) (another similar style here). Interestingly enough, the waist is actually elastic, which I normally cannot stand, but somehow it just works on this dress. I am also strongly leaning towards this dress for the wedding. I bought the dress for my thirtieth birthday on a clearance rack at Bloomingdales for under $100!!!

Close-up of the beading detail. I love the vintage feel of this dress.

And Wedding Season is Upon Us, Part II

2010-04-27T09:00:00.001-04:00

The parade of possible dresses to wear this wedding season continues! (Click here for Part I).

I also came to realization today that in October I may have three weddings to attend -- with two of them on the same day (luckily, not the one in which I am a bridesmaid). Uh oh. I already received a save-the-date for one of those weddings.

I spent my commute home today brainstorming hair and accessory ideas for this Saturday's approaching wedding. I need a haircut anyway, so I am thinking of getting a cut on Saturday afternoon and having the stylist do a nice blowout as well. I will probably decide on jewelry and a clutch at the last minute!

Karen Millen black and white heavy satin off-the-shoulder dress (insanely similar style here for only $59!) (another similar style here for $99). I love this dress, but I have already worn it to two weddings and I tend to like to wear this one when my husband needs to wear a tuxedo or where the dress code is very formal. Carrie Ann Inaba wore this dress on an episode of "Dancing With the Stars" just a few weeks after I bought it!

The back bottom of the Karen Millen dress - I love surprising detail work.

Odille dress from Anthropologie (similar style here) (another similar style here). This dress is comprised of two layers -- the first is an almost-but-not-quite-sheer mesh with the flower work around the bust and bottom. The second is the slip layer. I wore this dress to a law school ball. It has sadly been in the closet ever since... while the dress is very pretty, I think it is more suitable to an outdoors/garden-esque wedding where the dress code is perhaps less formal.

Up tomorrow - a Badgley Mischka and a Betsey Johnson!

And Wedding Season is Upon Us, Part I

2010-04-26T07:00:00.003-04:00

Next weekend kicks off my wedding season. I have several weddings to attend so far (although in one, I will be wearing a beautiful silver bridesmaid dress) and therefore I decided to survey my current dress situation.

The verdict?

I have plenty of dress choices to wear this year; find below a few photos. I will show various photos of my dresses over the course of this week, culminating with the dress I actually decide to wear to next weekend's wedding.

Oh, and in hunting through my closet for my dresses, I actually found my junior prom dress from 1995!!! Those photos are also below. Not only did this dress grace the dance floor of the junior prom, but it also graced an inaugural ball for Clinton in January of 1997. Now, that's a story I should probably get around to telling!

White House Black Market black lace dress with white underlay (similar style here) (another similar style here) (another similar style here - floor length). It has only been worn to one wedding several years ago. The straps also detach so it may be worn strapless. I am heavily leaning towards this dress and one other dress (to be shown later this week). I wore it with Stuart Weitzman sandals with Swarovski crystal embellishments, and might actually wear those shoes again (similar style here) (another similar style here).

Arden B. pink and wine crocheted dress (similar style here) (bank-busting similar style here). This is an oldie but goodie as well -- purchased in 2000 to wear to my college graduation ball event. It is very slim fitting and falls slightly below the knee. I wore it once again to a New Year's Eve celebration a few years ago.

And here it is! This deep-blue prom dress by A.B.S. was purchased in 1995 (quasi-similar style here). Can I consider this vintage yet??? It is very slinky shimmery fabric (a heavier jersey, I think, but the tags were cut out years ago) and falls just above the ankle. There are two side slits going up to the mid-thigh. I wore it with silver strappy sandals found at a vintage store (similar style here) (another similar style here).

A close-up of the fabric and the slits.

Two Shirts, Nine Bucks, Frugal Frugal

2010-04-25T09:09:00.000-04:00

This weekend is shaping up to be quite boring -- I threw on my Ann Taylor Loft Floral Silhouette cardigan and a pair of Joe's Jeans, slipped on my flip-flops and spent the entire day Saturday locally, and did not enter one store except the organic grocery to buy some fruit, Kashi bars, and some other food items for the coming week.

However, during a fit of boredom, I checked out some current Ebay auctions (watching two DVF dresses at the moment -- later edit: one dress jumped to $66! Are they nuts?) and decided to run an advanced search for auctions ending within the hour whose bids were under five dollars. I found Saturday's purchase, a Banana Republic tee and a tank from the Limited for nine dollars. For both shirts. Including shipping. Yay for me.

This is the point where I would paste in a photo of my extravagant purchases, but the freakin' photo from the Ebay seller refuses - actually refuses - to cooperating in the whole cutting and pasting or copying and saving or whatever process. Suffice it to say, that for $9 for two shirts, these are not the most glamorous shirts ever created, but they are certainly cute enough for summer weekend wear.

Today is shaping up to be another day of brunching-and-then-sitting-on-the-couch due to some nasty rainstorms heading this way. I therefore dug into my photo reserves and found this adorable Anthropologie dress from last year, worn on my honeymoon (and to several parties since) -- and don't fret, I will definitely show some honeymoon photos in a future post.

Moulinette Soeurs dress from Anthropologie (purchased early 2009) (similar style here from same designer) (another similar style here)

I wore the dress to a very special private dinner cruise in Phuket, Thailand (one of two honeymoon destinations). It was about 100 degrees, hence the lack of any accessories (less is more!). I wore Nine West sandals, not shown (similar style here - with a lower heel) (another similar style here).

And just because I love cute photos:

When we returned from dinner, we found that a frog had decided to "take a rest" inside the slats of our front entry gate (we stayed in a villa). I immediately whipped out the camera and took this photo, because how could I resist?

Stuart Weitzman Trunk Show (and Shoe Lust/Eye Candy Insanity)

2010-04-24T00:21:00.000-04:00

It's that time of the season... Stuart Weitzman's trunk shows! The trunk shows kick off in Aventura, Palm Beach Gardens, Phoenix and Palm Desert on April 24, 2010 and cover cities all over the U.S., such as White Plains, Las Vegas, Denver, Houston, Boston, Chicago and San Antonio. Of course, the trunk shows also hit the the stores located at the Columbus Circle Mall and Madison Avenue in May (click here for the full calendar and event locations). You will be able to preview the 2010 Fall and Winter Collection and orders will be taken at the events.

I am a massive Stuart Weitzman fan. You have already viewed my Stuart Weitzman mary janes (click here to see those shoes in action). I had red strappy sandals with gold edging that I wore to the point of disintegration. I have a pair of silver heels with Swarovski crystals covering the entire heel and part of the shoe decoration (quite an indulgent purchase). I also have a pair of velvet-ish purple flats, never worn, that I was thinking of selling at some point (but they are so pretty to look at!). And I haven't even discussed handbags...

In honor of the upcoming trunk shows, I decided to showcase a few of my favorite current shoes. The pics are so large so you can pick up on some of the wonderful yet subtle shoe details.

Chantell Pump - satin and lace peep toe pump with tiny crystals embedded in the lace

'Jardin' T-Strap Sandal - satin T-strap sandal with blooms and Swarovski crystals embedded in the flowers (look closely - the crystals are black)

Animal Print Gladiator - hairhide straps loop through metal rings, and studs punctuate the straps

Ruffled Satin Pumps - satin shoe with an open toe and satin ruffles

42 Questions About Skincare and Makeup: Jumping on the Blogger Bandwagon

2010-04-23T07:00:00.006-04:00

I saw this post idea on several different blogs and decided, "why not? Surely my readers want to know about every single skincare and makeup product that graces my face on a daily basis!" Right? Right? Anyone?!?!

Without further ado, the survey of skincare and makeup (I've included links where applicable to make your life easier).

because a post without a photo is BORING

SKINCARE

1) How many times do you wash your face daily?
Twice - morning and night (unless I go to the gym after work, then I need to wash a third time).

2) What skin type do you have?
Combination/sensitive - oily in some places, Sahara-dry in others, sensitive to anything containing even a hint of fragrance and anything else I might be allergic to that day.

3) What is your current facial wash?
When I use my Clarisonic, I use Purpose face wash. If I am not using my Clarisonic, I either use Purpose with my fingers or my St. Ives Apricot Scrub. I remove my makeup with Clinique's Take The Day Off.

4) Do you exfoliate?
Yes. During my senior year of college, my skin decided to "develop" rosacea and the inability to self-exfoliate like a normal person (I kid you not... this was dermatologist confirmed a few weeks before graduation). I have to (literally have to) exfoliate daily otherwise I run into issues in a few days.

5) What brand do you use?
St. Ives Apricot Scrub, or Clarisonic with Purpose.

6) What moisturizer do you use?
Clinique's Turnaround Concentrate (for above-described continuing exfoliation, which amazingly enough replaced my prescription medication about three years ago) and Clinique's Moisture Surge Gel.

7) Do you have freckles?
Just a few light ones on my face. The majority of my freckles are on my arms and legs.

8) Do you use eye cream?
No, because no matter what I use I get skin and eye irritations.

9) Do you or did you have acne prone skin?
I would classify it more as rosacea prone rather than acne prone.

10) Did you ever have to use Pro-Activ?
I used the face wash a few times, but never found it to be helpful.

MAKE UP

11) What foundation do you use?
I guess I have to classify Bare Minerals Matte as a foundation. When I need extra coverage, I use L'Oreal's True Match Roller makeup (click here for my review).

12) How about concealer?
MAC Studio Finish, which is the only concealer I have used for at least ten years. You don't mess with perfection.

13) Do you know your undertone colour?
No clue. But I look great in lipsticks with a blue undertone, if that matters.

14) What do you think of fake eyelashes?
They are great for many, but I don't use them because my eyelashes are already freakishly long. I can go mascara-less and they will still hit against my glasses lenses. If I curl them and put on mascara, they rival any fake eyelash anyday.

15) Did you know you were supposed to change your mascara every 3 months?
Yes.

16) What brand of mascara do you use?
I don't have much loyalty, because I operate on the "no-buy mascara" program. What is this program? I invented it -- instead of buying mascara, I just use any freebie that comes from Sephora, Lancome (via my mother-in-law) or Clinique. I also just received a Tarte kit from Sephora with three mascaras in it (click here for the post). So in addition to those three Tarte mascaras, I also have three Clinique mascaras and two Lancome mascaras in waiting. Each of those trial tubes lasts me about six weeks (not bad!). I bought Diorshow about 9 months ago because I had a lull in freebies, but now I will be riding out my "no-buy"mascara program for quite some time!

17) Sephora or Mac?
Sephora.

18) Do you have a Mac Pro card?
I don't even know what that is.

19) What makeup tools do you use in makeup application?
A very beat-up Tarte kabuki brush, a Sephora blush brush, and some Bare Escentuals brushes for eye makeup.

20) Do you use makeup base/primer for the eyes?
No.

21) For the face?
Never! I've never not had a primer give me issues.

22) What is your favorite eyeshadow? Colour or shade?
I wear a very natural eyeshadow for daily use (Bare Minerals in Well-Rested). When I need to amp it up, I usually go to Bare Minerals in Desire. I also have a small kit of various eyeshadows from Sephora that was a freebie that I use when I want to have some fun.

23) Do you use pencil or liquid liner?
Pencil - Clinque's Quickliner in Violet.

24) How often do you poke your eyes with an eyeliner pencil?
Never.

25) What do you think of pigment eye shadows?
I have no opinion.

26) Do you use mineral makeup?
Yes - Bare Minerals.

27) What is your favorite lipstick?
My two go-to shades are Chanel's Lilac Sky (now discontinued, thanks so much, Chanel) and MAC's Pervette.

28) How about lipgloss?
Oddly enough, I cannot stand how I look in lipgloss.

29) What is your favorite blush to use?
Nars Orgasm, with some Laguna on top (click here for the kit that also contains the Orgasm nailpolish).

30) Do you buy your makeup on Ebay?
Nope.

31) Do you like drugstore makeup?
Yes, if I find something terrific. I do not discriminate!

32) Do you go to CCO's?Cosmetic Company Outlet?
I have no idea what this even is.

33) Did you ever consider taking makeup classes?
No.

34) Are you clumsy in putting on makeup?
No, just lazy.

35) Name a makeup crime that you hate?

Ten thousand coats of mascara, heavy caked-on foundation/powder, unnaturally-lined lips.

36) Do you like colourful shades of makeup (lipstick or eyeshadow) or neutral ones?
I prefer neutral eyes and colorful lips. I love iridescent lip colors and colors in the wine field.

37) Which celebrity always has great makeup?
Is it bad that I don't pay much attention to celebrity makeup?

38) If you could leave the house using just ONE makeup item, what would you use?
I am not counting chapstick -- the next item is Nars Orgasm blush. I can put that on an instantly look more "alive."

39) Could you leave the house without any makeup on?
Sure, all the time -- going to the gym in the morning, running errands on a weekend morning, etc. I prefer to wear makeup, but it is not the end of the world if I don't.

40) Do you think you look good even without any makeup on?
I look much better with makeup on. Probably because of the rosacea issues.

41) In your opinion what is the BEST makeup line?
Tough, it's a tie... Bare Minerals and Clinique.

42) What do you think of makeup?
Makeup is not a splurge to me, it is a necessity. I have been wearing makeup since I was in middle school and I will no doubt be wearing makeup as I push my walker around in my old age. Makeup is fun, expressive, and a relatively cheap way to change a look up when feeling glum.

And the Giveaway Winner Is... (Drumroll Please...)

2010-04-22T21:00:00.000-04:00

The winner of the Philosophy Shower Gel and Faux-Pearl Earring giveaway is...

D
R
U
M
R
O
L
L

Anticipation building? Here we go!

With exactly 80 entries (taking into account all blogrolls, blog post mentions, and tweets), random.org gave me a winner...

Congrats, Steph of the Adventures of Goober Grape and the Monkey Man!

Email me at deconstructedlife@gmail.com with the address I should use to ship your package! If I don't hear from you by April 26th, I will let random.org pick a new winner (but I know you read this blog, so I have a feeling I will hear from you within a day or two).

How I Wore It: Embroidery and Polka Dots

2010-04-22T07:00:00.002-04:00

I suppose I am maintaining the back in black theme for yet another post. I wore this outfit to work about two weeks ago and decided to re-create it this past weekend for a post.

I don't like to wear exclusively black to work (even though I do exactly this more often than I'd like to admit), and therefore I keep this handy embroidered cardigan around to break up the monotony of all all-black outfit (and I love the embroidery on the back as well). I bought this dress a few years ago because I was looking to escape the "just-another-little-black-dress" syndrome -- this dress has black polka dots on black satin-esque fabric and I feel gives the dress a little life. Oh, and don't even ask how I got my legs in that position in the last photo, I have no idea.

The Details:

Cardigan: White House Black Market (similar style here) (another similar style here sans embriodery but still black and white) (and a bank-busting similar style here)

Dress: Banana Republic (similar sheath style here sans polka dots) (another similar style here with contrasting polka dots) (another similar style here with raised polka dots)

Shoes: Isaac Mizrahi (similar style here) (another - and cheaper - similar style here) (Manolo similar style here sans very rounded toe)

Handbag (not shown, my work purse): Longchamp Planetes (click here for my "What's in my Purse" post)

Teeny Tiny Update...

2010-04-21T23:27:00.000-04:00

The winner of the Philosophy Shower Gel and Faux Pearl Earrings giveaway will be announced tomorrow! Sorry to keep you all in suspense...

Two Fifth Avenue Institutions

2010-04-21T11:00:00.001-04:00

Today's focus: Takashimaya, the best little department store you've never heard of, and Henri Bendel's makeover/makeunder (and some gratuitous Fifth Avenue shots along the way). I also feel like this post is extremely long, so please bear with me!

My mom and I usually meet at Takashimaya for lunch when she comes to visit. Takashimaya is a Japanese department store. The New York branch is housed in a lovely building on Fifth Avenue between 54th and 55th. The cosmetics brands sold here are not the brands you typically find at other stores. The clothing is elegent, the jewelry display is jaw-dropping, and the Babor facials are lovely. The top floor hosts the ridiculous flower shop. But it is in the basement of this perfect department store that you find the Tea Box Cafe.

The Tea Box Cafe is nestled next to the counters and racks of delicious teas, imported tea sets and artfully packaged snacks. The restaurant is small but always worth the wait. I always get the Takashimaya Rose Tea and a bento box (the bento box selections change frequently so you never have the same exact meal twice). My mom likes the shrimp salad. But wait, there's more, and it's sad.... after the photos.

Saturday's bento box (mine) and shrimp salad (mom's)

The sad news? Takashimaya is closing it's doors in June. I weep.

How could this elegent little department store close???? And what will I do, where will I eat, without the Tea Box Cafe, arguably one of my favorite lunch locations in New York City????

Sniffles.

Pass a tissue, grazie.

After lunch and a stroll around the jewelry counters upstairs at Takashimaya, we strolled up Fifth Avenue towards Henri Bendel. Henri Bendel changed the focus of the flagship recently and we wanted to see the "revamped" store.

Pitter patter... walking down Fifth Avenue.

Now, here is how Henri Bendel used to work. You pushed your way through the heavy doors, trying to avoid the crush of the under-25 crowd armed with a credit card that probably belonged to a parental figure. Maybe you pushed through to the left, to examine the "hot now" purses, or maybe you veered right to fight your way to the large MAC counter. After a while you took a deep breath and wormed back into the first floor, past the crush of makeup artists doing countless makeover after makeover on anyone within reach. The entire floor was packed wall-to-wall. After you passed by the hair accessories area (selling three figure headbands...) you glided up the fabulous staircase, past the designer sunglasses and Chanel counter to the second floor.

The old second floor? Fun costume jewelry bombarded you from all sides. A perfume bar was tucked into a nook. The front balcony areas housed wool blend and cashmere sweaters (I bought one every year...). The back of the second floor morphed from jewelry, into sunglasses or winter gear, and then into trendy clothing. Another elegant staircase then took you up to the mezzanine level, housing DVF, then continued up and up and up... with the prices becoming increasingly expensive. And throughout all of this, women were packed like sardines, grabbing and buying and poking and prodding and shoving.

But Henri Bendel, as I mentioned before, decided to shift gears, I assume due to the recession. They decided to focus on branding more, and move away from the clothes. The only floors open anymore are the first and second floors, and the second floor is devoid of clothing -- that's right, the entire department store houses only makeup, bags, accessories and jewelry. And it is of questionable taste, in my opinion.

If I wanted to buy a ring shaped like an octopus, I would not pay several hundred dollars. If I wanted to buy a chunky and heavy necklace with some weird girl figure hanging off of it, I would not pay four figures! If i wanted a weapon to prevent attacks on the subway, I would not buy a twenty-pound necklace (see below) with every piece of everything attached to it. I would hop on the train, shuffle down to Union Square, and find it on 14th Street for $10.

Peter Som Bib Necklace sold at Henri Bendel (click here for link to store site) (photo from Henri Bendel website)

Henri Bendel used to present a tasteful selection of pave rings, for example. With so much store to fill, now, they have no choice but to present every pave ring under the sun, whether tasteful or not. And once you've seen a rack of pave rings (such as this one), thirty more racks are sort of unnecessary.

But the weirdest part? The store wasn't packed. The store wasn't even full. On a Saturday afternoon, mind you. When I picked up these rocker chic fingerless gloves, a saleswomen was immediately on hand to assist. In the old Henri Bendel, I would have had to fight against thirty other women for a saleswoman's attention while she smugly filed her nails, aware that her commission was going to be pretty high that day.

Alas, we left the store, wondering how long it would take for them to just close the Fifth Avenue flagship completely.

The last highlight was the Prada window. Not that there was anything amazing or spectacular about it, like a holiday-time window display, but I wanted to take a few moments to discuss the recent surge of the tulip-style skirt.

Photo of a Prada window display featuring tulip skirts

A subtle tulip skirt can be quite a beautiful statement piece. The designers, however, have recently been showing a rather exaggerated tulip skirt, such as the Prada ones shown above (see also this Paul Smith skirt or this Phoebe Couture dress). I imagine that this exaggerated style is not a piece that will function well with many women and various body shapes. I have half a mind to try one on and take some photos so we can all see how it works on a real person.

How I Wore It: Back in Black!

2010-04-20T15:00:00.000-04:00

Observant readers will recall that my "Build A Wardrobe: Tailored Shirtdress" post included a reference to a future post where I model several of my favorite shirtdresses... welcome to that post!

I dragged my poor husband back and forth from the warmth and coziness of the apartment to the damp chill of the balcony, instructing him to talk photos of my modeling endeavor in four different shirtdresses. I refrained from wearing jewelry, carrying a purse or accessorizing with belts that did not originally come with the dresses. I am wearing the same pair of shoes in each photo for consistency (Isaac Mizrahi round-toe mary janes from 5F at Bergdorf Goodman, circa 2007).

Dress: H&M military style shirtdress with chest and hip pockets and black belt (similar style here) - I bought it in 2002 and I am still wearing it, as recently as three weeks ago!

Dress: Express lightweight three-quarter sleeve shirtdress with sash (similar style here) (another similar style here) - this is the dress that has flown to Chicago for a client dinner, and also worn with black leggings and Uggs on a nasty winter weekend.

Dress: Brand unknown, belted with buttons only going to the waist and faux pockets (similar style here) - from a small local cheap boutique that carries some really amazing stuff... this dress only cost $19.99.

Dress: Betsey Johnson retro-style shirtdress with sash - It is sometimes fun to do a little something different for warmer weather. I didn't find any close matches for this dress while writing this post, but check out this dress and also this dress for twists on the classic black shirtdress that would be great summer substitutes.

Do you have any favorite shirtdresses? Are you planning on purchasing any shirtdresses?

Pilates Fashion Hotness

2010-04-19T17:00:00.000-04:00

I've never written about it much before, but I sometimes revolve my week around when I can take a pilates class or two. Sometimes I take a combination pilates/barre class at a studio near my office. Other weeks, I take a reformer class at a studio near my home. I also own an at-home bodyband pilates kit similar to this one for days when I feel the need to practice but I cannot make it to a studio (either due to my work schedule or because the cost of each class can sometimes mean I limit myself to one class per week). I am by no means a pilates expert, but I greatly enjoy the classes in addition to my regular gym workouts.

I recently purchased these Gaiam no-slip yoga socks, also recommended for pilates. Most instructors will, and should, ask that you wear socks during class (I think it may actually be a New York State law), but sometimes my socked feet start to slide during certain moves. These no-slip socks should take of the slipping issue. I also think they are pretty cute!

Most women in New York seem to have adopted the same style of uniform dress. At my last combination pilates/barre class, every woman wore a tank top (similar to this and also this) and either a pair of long black yoga pants (similar to this) or black yoga capris (similar to this). Is this the case for your part of the country or world?

Weekend Whimsy: Museum of Arts and Design

2010-04-18T18:00:00.002-04:00

This weekend's recap will be split into two parts: the first, a photo tour of my time spent at the Museum of Arts and Design, and the second (appearing in a day or two), a few photos of the rest of my weekend and some commentary on the fate two legendary Fifth Avenue department stores.

As I noted in a prior post, my mom was visiting this weekend. We decided to stroll through the new Museum of Arts and Design, located right in Columbus Circle. Sometimes you can learn a lot about fashion and beauty by examining what others find beautiful or inspirational! Also important to note, the gift shop at the Museum of Arts and Design is phenomenal. A large jewelry display houses creative pieces from artists hailing from Israel, New York, Kenya and Minnesota, just to name a few. The housewares and purses in the gift shop are also quite creative and impressive (if I need to do some home decoration, I will definitely check out the gift shop during my search!). What is your favorite museum (and gift shop)? Even if the museum is not in NYC or another major city, please tell me about it! Sometimes it is important to go off the beaten path in order to find something extraordinary.

The museum's current exhibition focuses on the work of Viola Frey, an influential sculptor who died only a few years ago. These are some of her later pieces (the seated women is about just as tall as me, so you can appreciate the scale of her work). We were able to track the progression of her work and learn about what inspired her.

A unique quality of this museum is the ability of the visitor to watch an artist working on their current project. As you can see, towards the top of this photo, a woman is sitting behind a desk. She is working with clay and is in the process of creating a large-scale work for future display. The main focus of this photo is the work of another artist, Malika Green -- shoes!

Another pair of Malika Green's wearable shoe art.

Although probably not many visitors use the stairwell and opt instead for the elevator, we traveled between several floors by foot and found some exhibits on the floor landings! Several windows were filled with interested glasses. I unfortunately did not note the names of the artist(s) - if you happen to know, send me an email or leave a comment.

Another stairwell - this time, stained glass and copper foil accents (work by Judith Schaecter).

Several artists used unusual objects to create their art - this artist, Lindsay Ketterer Gates, used, among other things, pistachio shells and silver in creating this handbag (not for actual use, of course!).

One section of the museum was dedicated to silver jewelry from the collection of Daniel and Serga Nadler (with pieces from North Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, and the hill tribes of Southeast Asia). This is a headdress.

Another piece from the Nadler collection - heavy and ornate silver anklets. The collection also included bracelets, amulets, earrings and neck ornaments.

And to round out the post, a gratuitous shot of Columbus Circle, as seen from the museum.

Wedding Memory Lane

2010-04-17T21:00:00.002-04:00

Wedding season is approaching (the season kicks off for me at a wedding at some Trump-affiliated hotel in the very near future), and therefore I think a few of my own wedding photos are in order. Given that I don't show my face (anonymity, if you haven't deduced it by now), my photos will be more detailed oriented. All photography is courtesy of Jovon Photography on Long Island. If you need excellent photographers, this is the place to go, I promise. Email me at deconstructedlife@gmail.com if you need me to put you in touch with some excellent photographers and videographers (I had a team of five for my 65 person wedding... they truly went above and beyond).

My dress by La Sposa (purchased at Wedding Atelier in NYC) - strapless, fitted, not much of a train, tons of lace and beading detail.

My necklace - vintage Fred Leighton (my mom wore the same necklace when she got married). I also wore pearl stud earrings that were a present from my husband years earlier.

I told the photographer to take this photo, and I am glad I did -- it is one of my favorites. I found these Louboutins on a clearance rack on the second floor of Bergdorf Goodman before I was even engaged. I bought them with the intention of wearing them the following summer to parties and such. Then I got engaged, found a dress, and realized these shoes would be perfect for the wedding.

Dress and veil detail. La Sposa does amazing work with lace and beading. Wedding Atelier's seamstresses did an amazing job altering a dress with so much detail. I actually initially didn't care about the veil at all, and I just wanted something sheer and affordable. While I was at Wedding Atelier for a dress fitting, I asked if they had any veils. They showed me this one, and then told me that not only was it a sample (half-price!) but that because I bought my dress there they would lower the price even further. Sold!

The reception room before the DJ set up (the calm before the storm). We wanted a reception room that had many windows and some nice outside landscaping. This room not only had floor to ceiling windows for three of the four walls, but also a giant skylight. There is also a large brick terrace outside, which was the site of many outdoor photos (we had a winter wedding, but lucked out with a perfectly sunny and 50 degree day -- almost precisely a year earlier, there had been a blizzard!).

All artsy and creative.

Let them eat cake! I had no idea our cake was going to turn out so lovely. We didn't care much about the cake, which was part of our catering package. We told our caterer to do whatever he wanted, and this is the amazing outcome. The florist had some extra rose petals, so he gave them to the caterer and the caterer put them around the base of the cake.

Simple seating cards done by the caterer. We placed them on top of a piano in the lobby and threw some rose petals around them for decoration, and then called it a day.

Giveaway Reminder!

2010-04-17T18:00:00.002-04:00

Time is running short... don't neglect to enter my giveaway! Click here to enter.

Amazed at the brevity of this post? Not to fret, a mega-post is just three hours away!

Bits and Pieces, Pieces and Bits

2010-04-16T20:45:00.000-04:00

I am so excited for this weekend! My mom is visiting (our usual Saturday schedule includes bento boxes at Takashimaya's Tea Box Cafe and a museum, shopping, craft fair or other fun event) and the rain should be stopping. Any. Second. Now. Please.

I've decided to post a weekly round-up of sorts. Questions for my readers are in italics!

1) My ebay el cheapo DVF top (click here for original post) arrived just four days after paying for it! It is adorable and oh-so-comfortable. It will definitely be a well-worn summer piece this year. Oh, and what would a post be without a teaser pic?

My husband is at work, so I had to revert to my usual badly-lit self photo. I am wearing a camisole under the top.

2) Enticed by the Sephora VIB sale (click here for original post) and my realization that I hadn't replaced my Clarisonic brush head in ages, I bought the Clarisonic delicate brush head and swapped it out with the sensitive brush head. It is definitely much softer, but no determination yet as to which one I like better. They both leave my skin soft and smooth. Maybe I will jump back and forth between the two! Do you have a favorite brush head?

Clarisonic delicate brush head (click here)

3) Remember my Caudalie Spa in a Box kit from Gilt (click here for the original post)? I am totally in love with the Vine Peach Shower Gel (and this scrub and this hand cream) and can't believe the tube is over half gone already!

4) I started a makeup purge so so so long ago (probably before any of my readers were actually reading this blog -- click here for the original post). I had lofty goals of finishing a complete makeup purge by mid-January. Needless to say, this endeavor is a touch off course right now. It is rather difficult to toss a $95 eye cream that was used about ten times, or a $50 foundation that didn't live up to the hype. If you have any words of encouragement, please leave a comment!

5) I started "shampooing" with conditioner frequently, such that I only "shampoo" my hair with actual shampoo two to three times a week. If you are not up on this latest trend, here are the basics -- you neglect your shampoo every other day or so and just scrub your scalp with conditioner (and afterwards, if necessary, put conditioner on the ends, etc. as you normally would after shampooing). I am currently using this conditioner by Avalon Organics (it seems to run around $9-10 in stores, but I paid $4 because my local organic grocery was having some sort of Avalon Organics sale).

Interested in Avalon Organics products? Click below:

avalon organics

Friday Lust: Watercolor Swirl

2010-04-16T15:00:00.002-04:00

Just a few eye candy photos of a lovely style of print out right now -- I've termed it the watercolor swirl.

Christian Louboutin floral print chiffon peep toe pump

My eyes immediately went to this shoe when I was browsing insanely expensive eye candy the other day. This slingback is a close second. Click here for this more affordable watercolor-esque peep toe by BCBGeneration.

DVF petal print silk tank top

I have a hankering for abstract swirls. Click here and also here for these more affordable watercolor tanks by Forever 21.

DVF Paradis dress

I love the diagonal shirring, the fitted waist, the colors, everything!

To find your own watercolor swirl dress, start by browsing below:

watercolor dress

A Special Welcome!

2010-04-16T13:25:00.000-04:00

I just want to say "hi" to the Llamas that have recently found this blog. Thanks for stopping by!

(If you have no idea what I am talking about.... "Llamas," you may be asking yourself, "has Deconstruction gone completely off the deep end?" Do not fret. The Llamas know who they are!)

Stay. Click. Read. Follow. Subscribe. Enjoy.

Regular posting will resume in a few hours, when my next post is scheduled to appear.

Cheerio, and happy Friday!

Black and Red Rose Love

2010-04-15T19:00:00.000-04:00

I spied a DVF vintage black and red rose wrap top recently, and loved the pattern so much that I mentally filed the thought in that little recess of my brain reserved for non-crucial fashion reminders.

I unearthed a few other items that play up this black and red rose pattern. I myself have a black v-neck tee with red roses scattered down the side. Sort of tough looking (I wore it to an AC/DC concert last summer), but at the same time very girly.

I love love love this Stella McCartney rose print pleated top (yes, it is a top, not a dress). A little, ahem, pricey, but so absolutely gorgeous! Just in case $1,400 is a touch out of reach... try these significantly more affordable black and red rose pattern options -- this Red Rose Zoe dress by Topshop for $60, this top by Forever 21 for $15.80 or this cinched houndstooth blazer (actually a red blazer with black rose accent) by Forever 21 for $24.80.

Do you have any black and red rose items already in your closet?

Build A Wardrobe: Tailored Shirtdress

2010-04-14T19:00:00.002-04:00

Could you even get more classic than a tailored shirtdress?!?!? Me thinks not.

There is a reason the tailored shirtdress has been around for decades upon decades and relied on by too many women to count. It is simple (pull it on, button it up and presto, done getting dressed), looks great with both flats and heels, and often comes with a figure-flattering belt or sash at the natural waistline. I own four black shirtdresses alone, worn from anything to a client dinner in Chicago to a casual weekend running errands (the same shirtdress did this!).

First things first -- which color for your first shirtdress? As you may have guessed by now, I advocate black as the color of choice when building a wardrobe from the ground up. If you feel that black is too severe, aim for other basic colors that can be dressed both up and down (perhaps a chocolate brown, a dark grey, etc.). A second and third shirtdress can come in a different color, but we have to assume for now that you are only buying one. Khaki-esque colors are ok for shirtdresses, but not for your first one, because it is more difficult to take a kahaki color from dressed up to dressed down than a darker color (plus, if you have body "issues," black may be more forgiving for now).

The fit of this shirtdress is not loose and flowy. Think about clean lines and a tailored fit. If you are not sure what I mean, scroll down to the photos below for some visual aids. Imagine the perfect-fitting button-down shirt, with a slight shaping at the bust without needless pulling of fabric and a slight tapering in at the waist. Also watch the buttons when you try on the dress. Do you see any gaping between buttons? Does the dress pull across the chest? If you notice any problems like this, go up a size, because you need to fit the largest part of your body. Stick to a skirt that hits at your knees or slightly above. Anything shorter and you run the risk of looking immature. Anything longer and you may look and feel dowdy.

Many shirtdresses come with a belt or sash right at the natural waistline. This item alone will give your shirtdress a bit of shape and also give your body a bit (but not too much!) of shape. It gives the impression of cinching in your waist a touch, without really making you uncomfortable at all! If you find a shirtdress that fits perfectly but doesn't have a belt or sash, consider buying one separately. Now, sometimes shirtdresses come with some elastic waist concoction. These types of shirtdresses may look fun and cozy, but this style doesn't work for everyone so please be wary.

A shirtdress can be plain (with simple buttons, sometimes the same color as the dress) or they can be somewhat decorated with exaggerated buttons and pockets. Sometimes pockets are rather benignly placed, such as flat pockets near the hip bones, but sometimes pockets are bulky hip pockets or bust-centric pockets. This may exaggerate a part of your body that you would rather exaggerate, if you know what I mean. Even if you love the shirtdress one million percent on the rack, be aware of pocket placement and where those pockets fall on you. Don't be afraid to put the shirtdress back and continue your search. Buttons can also be distracting, especially if you desire to wear the shirtdress to work. Think plain and simple for now -- large and bright accents can always come later, if at all.

I've complied several terrific examples of shirtdresses that you can use as a guide in finding something that works for your body shape, lifestyle, etc. I am only posting black shirtdresses, but when finding your own shirtdress you should pay just as much attention to the fit as to the color. If you find the perfect dress in a dark brown, work with it! I've included a general search box at the end of this post so you can examine many styles before you hit the stores. You should also expect to see a "How I Wore It" post in the next week or two where I model several of my favorite shirtdresses!

This Calvin Klein belted short-sleeve shirtdress is extremely similar to my favorite shirtdress, except the buttons and belt buckle on mine are also black. If you are uncomfortable with the placement of the chest or hip pockets, you may want to skip this style. This belt is wonderful at emphasizing the natural waist without constricting movement, and the clean tailored lines of the dress are still preserved even with the slightly cinched waist. I get a ridiculous amount of mileage out of this style of dress and compliments non-stop (I bought mine in 2005! So old it is practically vintage by now).

This 100% silk Tory Burch dress is slinkier in movement yet still retains that tailored feel. Again, note the all-important sash belt at the natural waist and how the rest of the fabric merely skims the body comfortably. This dress is nearly identical to an Express-brand shirtdress that I have owned for years and wear quite frequently. If you want a non-silk option, try this similar belted dress made of cotton with a hint of spandex for shape.

For a more playful option with a retro feel, try this Anne Klein pleated shirt dress. This might be a good option for someone who doesn't entirely like buttons running down the front of the dress but still wants the feel of a shirtdress with a belt. The skirt is also more flowing yet the dress still manages to maintain a crisp and tailored look.

To incorporate the look into your Spring and Summer wardrobe, try this Lauren by Ralph Lauren polka dot sleeveless shirtdress. Plain black can sometimes feel too severe on a summery day, and these polka dots preserve the classic black look with a slight twist. This dress is 100% cotton and has an A-line skirt.

Start your own search for a belted shirtdress by clicking below:

belted shirtdress

A Decade Behind, I "Discover" Ebay

2010-04-13T21:10:00.000-04:00

Last week I started reading about this crazy little website called "Ebay." A place that lists items for sale? For under cost? In an auction format? What will they think of next?!?!?

I kid. You must know that, right?

But honestly, I have NEVER used Ebay before. I have browsed in the past, mainly for things like Louboutin shoes and to gawk at the prices of Birkin bags and whatnot. I even once started to list an item for sale and then forgot to finish the posting. My mom has both bought and sold items on Ebay for years, but somehow it all went just right by me -- you know, people around me frantically talking about their latest purchases and checking their auctions, with me sitting in the corner examining my cuticles and being generally oblivious to the seemingly inconsequential happenings transpiring around me.

But then a miracle happened. I had a slow day at work and decided to check this novel "Ebay" thing out for real. So I typed in "Furstenberg" and *gasp* received so many results that I was in a giddy little state of heaven for about twenty minutes. Then I decided to get creative, and narrowed all of my searches to max out at $10. And the results were still plentiful. Then I decided to narrow my searches to items that were "new, with or without tags" only. Still tons of results! Could it be? Was I on to something here?

Sidebar: Just in case you haven't noticed, the economy is a lil' bit stinky right now. I've decided to impose a "budget" on my monthly purchases (pretty much to see if I can actually do it, says the girl who spent $100 at Sephora last week because the store enticed her with the VIB sale...) and therefore need to get creative as to how to utilize the budget funds in the most efficient way possible.

I tested ebay out by bidding on, and of course winning, a new but last-season (or last-last-season) DVF top. I paid, the seller shipped it out today, and in a few days I will be the proud owner of a $14.49 DVF top. Oh, happy day.

The el cheapo DVF top - 70% silk, with the remainder a mix of other stuff that was too boring to remember.

I have my eye on a few other items - some more DVF, Nanette Lepore, dresses I know I have seen at Anthropologie in past years, and a killer vintage pair of Stuart Weitzman pumps. But it is important to know your limits, money-wise. For example, I was interested in a top from an Anthropologie designer but the price escalated well over my comfort zone (for that top, $10). So I just kissed it goodbye.

I also love the environmental/recycling aspect of Ebay. It gives a new home to clothing, for example, that the current owner does not want around anymore.

I would, of course, love to hear about your Ebay experiences. Any great scores? Do you prefer to sell?

If you would like to browse some DVF items for fun (because you know I love me some DVF), click here:

furstenberg

Fitting Room Follies: J. Crew

2010-04-13T11:00:00.001-04:00

Looking for the giveaway? Click here.

I decided that this Fitting Room Follies post should occur at a store that I typically do not frequent. I know many people swear by J. Crew but alas, I am not one of these people. I think I own one item from J. Crew, a dressy tank, and I cannot recall ever wearing it. I don't know if I can explain why I don't wind up buying anything from J. Crew -- the fit doesn't quite work for me and the cost is a bit too high, but I think it goes beyond that somehow. Regardless, I visited a J. Crew store in midtown a few days ago and tried on a selection of items. Not pictured below is this cool tunic and these teensy tiny shorts that both caught my eye on the rack but I decided not to try on due to time constraints.

The Jeweled Celestial Dress immediately caught my eye. The fit wasn't great for me -- my other hand is clutching excess material. When I tied the back tie the fit was worse somehow. Then I saw the $695 price tag and immediately took it off...

Ok, I admit it, J. Crew cashmere is pretty nice and affordable as far as cashmere goes. I will have to keep it in mind for next winter. I paired this cashmere v-neck cardigan in the bright plum color with this silk pleated strapless dress. Normally I would show you the dress by itself too, but the dress was too large (vanity sizing? I took the smallest size) and therefore a photo was not in the cards.

I then tried on the Strapless Chambray Wild Rose Dress with the Lollipop Ribbon Jacket. Again, the dress was much too large (please stop with the vanity sizing! I am 5-4 and thin yet curvy and a size 0 should definitely fit me!) so I could not post a photo. The jacket was very cute but I think the fit was too boxy on me.

This Turkish Delight Pencil Skirt was the first item I took to try on when I entered the store. I love the pattern but yet again, the fit caused me to hesitate. I think it needs to be shorter?

I also tried on this gold pencil skirt (similar J. Crew skirt here). Again, I love the skirt, but not necessarily on me.

Do you own any J. Crew items? What is you experience with the fit of these items?

What's in my Purse? Jumping on the Blogger Bandwagon...

2010-04-12T13:00:00.002-04:00

Looking for the giveaway? Click here.

Two of the bloggers I have been following for a long time, The Thing About Daisies and Saltwater Dreams, recently did a purse examination post. I decided to be a follower and do this too... although by the time you read this post, it will actually be several days after I write it (because I do most of my writing on the weekends, and schedule posts to be published during the week while I am probably sitting behind a desk wearing a button-down shirt and a pencil skirt and muttering about corporate law and incorrectly formatted documents under my breath).

My everyday purse (Longchamp Planetes) and contents:

From left to right:

Nicole Miller makeup bag (came free with a dress purchase)

Coffee sucking candies for boring subway commutes

Bic pen

Ipod shuffle for boring subway commutes

Cell phone

Excedrin Migraine

Blackberry

Keys

Jergens lotion (click here)

Furla wallet (click here for similar style)

Trident White gum

Metrocard

Very beat-up and much-loved brush case with kabuki brush inside by Tarte (click here)

The makeup bag and contents:

From left to right:

Inhaler

Nars blush/bronzer duo in Orgasm/Laguna (click here)

Oil-absorbing sheets (click here for similar sheets)

Extra hair tie

MAC lip pencil in Half-red (click here)

Sephora-brand blush brush

Dental Floss

MAC Studio Finish cover-up (click here)

Bare Minerals Matte (click here)

MAC lipstick in Pervette (click here)

Visine

Blistex Silk and Shine lip balm (click here)

Tiny mirror

And the cute yet snarky tee I was wearing, because I cannot resist!

How can you not adore this tee? It was an impulse purchase about two years ago at the Bryant Park Holiday Crafts Fair held in late November/December each year.

I also want to apologize to all of my recent commenters. I am very behind in visiting all of your blogs and letting you know that I appreciate your visits and comments! I am hoping to make some free time to reciprocate your visit within the next few days, so please bear with me...

Weekend Whimsy: Field Trip, Play Ball!

2010-04-11T20:00:00.002-04:00

This weekend was so jam-packed with things not related to fashion or beauty that I have no photos of outfits to present to you all! In lieu thereof, I have some fun photos of my field trip to Citi Field, the home of the NY Mets. I wore a grimy pair of jeans, mangled flip flops from last year, a random tee and a sweatshirt coat. Clearly not classy photo attire (even the most well-intentioned of us like to slum around some days).

Citi Field is a great stadium -- modern, clean and filled with tasty food options. I started off with a bbq pulled pork sandwich from Blue Smoke, moved on to Belgium-style frites with mayo dipping sauce, and culminated with some pink cotton candy. I also relaxed in the sun and played with my blackberry. Somewhere in there the Mets apparently played a baseball game.

Play ball! Our seats were high up but only a bit off-center.

The manicured outfield.

Not filled to capacity but decent attendance.

We visited the site of the Shea Stadium home plate (now in the middle of Citi Field's parking lot).

Any fun weekend plans to report?

Fashion and beauty-oriented posts will resume tomorrow! Well, except for this cute shirt that I saw one girl wearing at the game... how could you not love this shirt? And they also sell them for other baseball teams too!

Giveaway! Philosophy Shower Gel and Faux-Pearl Earrings

2010-04-10T23:59:00.004-04:00

As a celebration for hitting (and now surpassing) 85 followers, I declare it time for a giveaway! The prize? One of Philosophy's highly touted shower gels in the Oatmeal Raisin scent plus a faux-pearl stud earring set from New York & Company!

I use one of my many Philosophy shower gels almost every day, so I decided to give away a brand-new 4 fl. oz. container (I was first introduced to the Oatmeal Raisin scent when it came with this Cookie Exchange kit). The lucky winner will also receive two pairs of faux-pearl stud earrings, because if you read this post you might have an idea or two about how much I love incorporating pearls into a wardrobe (click here, here and here for some great pearl stud earring examples).

How to enter:

1) Make sure you are either a follower or a Facebook fan. If you aren't one yet, just become a follower or fan before moving on to step two.

2) Leave a comment to this post before 11:59 pm on Tuesday, April 20th, 2010 - let me know if you have ever used Philosophy products before, which products you love, and how you would wear the earrings!

3) You must currently reside in the US or on a US military base (even if an international base, as long as the shipping charges are the same as if you were still in the US). I apologize to my international readers!

4) If you blog or tweet about this giveaway, you will get an extra entry for each blog post or tweet (let me know in your comment with a link to the blog or tweet so I can verify... and you can get multiple extra entries for multiple blog posts and tweets)!

5) If I am in your blogroll, you will get TWO extra entries (let me know in your comment with a link to your blogroll or just letting me know it is on your blog's main page so I can verify)!

Good luck! And if you want to find other great giveaways, visit Free Grechen!

Sunshine Award for Moi!

2010-04-10T16:30:00.001-04:00

House in Tillford and Sophiasa, both excellent blogs that I follow, gave me this award within a week of each other -- how sweet of them both!

Of course, awards come with rules...

1. Put the logo on your blog of within your post.

2. Pass the award on to twelve bloggers.

3. Link to the nominees within your post.

4. Let them know they received this award by commenting on their blog.

5. Share the love and the link to the person from whom you received this award.

I humbly bestow this award on the following twelve bloggers (I am trying to not pick bloggers I have awarded in the past, in order to spread the love):

Your Trash, My Treasure

The Well-Appointed Catwalk

What Would a Nerd Wear

Lighthouse for the Blind's Annual Posh Sale

2010-04-09T20:54:00.000-04:00

A friend just told me about Lighthouse International's upcoming fundraising event in NYC (there is also one in Palm Beach if you are in Southern Florida), held this year from May 13-16th (a 4 day pass is only $30, or a daily pass for $10) with a benefit preview on May 12th ($175 includes sale admission). You can purchase advance tickets by clicking here. If you purchase your ticket by May 7th, you can bring a friend and get two daily tickets for the price of one! My friend, who has gone to this event in years past, wants me to let you all know that new designer clothing and vintage designer clothing can be had for a steep discount (she's personally bought Missoni, Yves Saint Laurent, vintage Bill Blass, Chanel and Etro). Cue my jealousy monster.

From Lighthouse International's website:

The 2010 sale includes fashions for women, men and children from the likes of Asprey, Balenciaga, Burberry, Christian Lacroix, Coach, Courreges, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Diane von Furstenberg, Giorgio Armani, Jimmy Choo, Lanvin, Matthew Williamson, Narciso Rodriguez, Oscar de la Renta, Roberto Cavalli, Stella McCartney, Tory Burch and more! Inventory is replenished daily, making each of the four days an unbelievable opportunity to purchase designer fashion at incredible prices. And, all proceeds benefit Lighthouse International’s mission to fight vision loss through prevention, treatment, and empowerment.

Sephora VIB Purchases (a/k/a Some of my Essentials)

2010-04-09T14:00:00.006-04:00

If you are a Sephora VIB, you most likely took advantage of the 15% off VIB sale (or are about to). I took stock of my makeup and beauty products and, despite keeping myself on a tidy budget, placed an order for items that I use daily and consider to be my beauty essentials for which I have not found, and do not care to find, cheaper alternatives.

Skin Care by Clinique
Brushes & Applicators by clarisonic

I have written about it before (click here for the post), but I use my Clarisonic daily. I purchased this long-overdue replacement brush head in "Delicate" for my Clarisonic. The "Delicate" brush head is the most gentle of them all.

Next up was a Clinique restocking. I have been using the Clinique Turnaround Concentrate Visible Skin Renewer for about three years. I use it before my moisturizer in the morning, and on it's own at night. I also purchased my favorite eyeliner, Clinique's Quickliner, in Violet. I have been using this color exclusively for several years as well. This eyeliner goes on smoothly and (duh) quickly and always stays on all day, despite my oilier-than-preferable skin. Unfortunately, Sephora was somehow sold out!!! of this makeup remover, but I have enough left for several weeks and perhaps will find it in a store this weekend instead.

My last purchase was a new container of Bare Minerals Matte (read my review here). I like to keep a container on hand, and my current one is looking a bit sparse.

Lo and behold, my purchases pushed my current Sephora point value to over 500! I was therefore eligible for my 500-point perk, and I chose the Tarte cosmetics sampler kit (with three mascaras, a lip gloss thing, some eyeliner, a primer... all good stuff to keep me entertained!). Because you cannot purchase the kit separately (at least to my knowledge), I did not post it here because it would be cruel to tease you in such a manner.

Wandering Around: NYC Photos and an Anthro Skirt

2010-04-08T19:00:00.002-04:00

I had a bit of spare time on a recent day when I went to make my usual lunch run. I took advantage of the 70+ degree weather (especially because I heard rain was again coming in a few days) and spent a few minutes walking around the city near my office.

First, the rink at Rock Center. I was fascinated by the skaters wearing tanks and tees, surrounded by people eating outside. I imagine this would be much fun for a tourist!

The rink, surrounded by lunchers.

Check out the girl in the green tank on the ice! How many times will you be able to go ice skating outside while dressed for summer?

I also wandered into Times Square for a block or two. Being a New Yorker, I try my hardest to avoid Times Square, but sometimes I have no choice but to pass through (Broadway show, Sephora, or the faux-surf-boy stores that always have a complete stock of my favorite flip-flops).

MAC is coming to Times Square! Also notice part of the Forever 21 sign next to the Disney sign, because it is also coming to Times Square!

I also wandered over to Anthropologie because I heard that new sale items had hit the racks. I first spied this dress in grey (almost 50% off too) and immediately picked it up. Luckily I remembered, before buyer's temptation set in, that I own a remarkably similar dress featured in this post just last week! I decided to try on Fei's Scattered Sequins Skirt, marked down from $118 to $29.95.

The skirt was beautiful, but I decided to pass this time. Frugal Frugal Frugal! (Except for the Manolos, my dear.)

A close-up of the skirt. The yellow "bursts" are actually sequin clusters. The skirt is wonderfully Spring-esque and cheery and I have no idea how it would up on the sale rack, honestly.

Readers, do you wander around at lunch during a nice day? Where do you like to go?

About Face - Salute to Sunblock

2010-04-07T19:00:00.002-04:00

Actual honest-to-goodness warmth and sunshine this past weekend reminded me that the scorching summer season is right around the corner (along with a trip to Mexico in the near future...). I could take this opportunity to teach you about looking pretty on the beach, or chic in a sundress, or how to remain blister-free in summery stilettos. I am instead going to get all Public Service Announcement on you and discuss something of actual importance to your long-term well-being and health -- SUNBLOCK FOR YOUR FACE.

I generally rely on the SPF 25 in my makeup (either my Bare Minerals Matte or my new obsession, the L'Oreal True Match Roller). This is perfectly adequate for my typical weekday routine -- walk 2 blocks to the subway when the sun is barely up, run out for lunch for ten seconds,and then return home after the sun has already set. Yet there are days when I do things like head to the beach or attend an outside fair where I know I will be exposed to sunshine for more than 30 seconds.

I therefore swap out my daily moisturizer for a facial sunblock and apply rather generously. After it soaks in for a few minutes, I layer on top my makeup (I figure that just in case I missed a spot with the sunblock, I will catch it with my makeup). If going to the beach, I just use some Bare Minerals and maybe a bronzer and call it a day after swiping on some SPF-laced lip balm. Even if I wind up with a breakout or two, I consider this temporary side effect to be far better than the alternative (a/k/a skin cancer and wrinkled skin that looks like a prune!).

I use Clinique's Sun SPF 50 Face Cream. It has a great texture, sinks in quickly, and I typically suffer no irritation from it. For cheaper alternatives, try this SPF 70 from Neutrogena, this SPF 80 from Ulta, or this Bull Frog sunblock.

I know the importance of sunblock (for the face, as discussed here, and for the entire body, which maybe I will discuss in a later post) because I spent several years as a lifeguard. And as a lifeguard, I could drench myself in as much sunblock as possible, and it still wouldn't matter by the end of the summer -- it would sweat off, or be washed off by water, or you would manage to miss an entire shoulder somehow. I escaped relatively unscathed. No future problems or nasty facial wrinkles for me!

Find more sunblock for your face here:

face sunblock

Readers, I am this close to kicking off my next giveaway. 85 followers or 120 subscribers is all it takes! So follow this blog, or subscribe, and the giveaway will be triggered!

How I Wore It: Zippered Dress

2010-04-06T19:00:00.002-04:00

When I tried on this adorable zippered shirt-dress (shown in this post) I was reminded of a zippered dress I bought at the end of last summer. I found it at Club Monaco on a 70% off rack. It was a size double zero so I was concerned that it would be much too tight. I am tiny, but not that tiny. But I tried it on anyway and, lo and behold, it was tight, but not too tight, and actually quite a nice dress for warmer weather. I bought it and put it in my closet for Summer 2010.

NYC finally presented some sunny and warm weather this past weekend so I decided to try on the dress and test out some shoes and purses. I think this outfit would make a nice choice for a dinner and evening out during the Summer season.

I paired it with some gold and black heels (playing up the gold zipper on the dress) that I bought several years ago and a Fendi purse with gold accents that I bought on Beyond the Rack for quite a discount. I decided to wear a handmade cuff bracelet (made by my very talented mom!). Clothing details and similar style suggestions are scattered between the below photos.

Dress: Club Monaco (similar style here) (another similar style here)

Shoes: Calvin Klein (similar style here - click the black and gold option) (another similar style here) (and by similar style I mean adhering to the basics of the shoe, such as gold and black sandal, gold strap, etc. because exact matches on this one were not happening)

Purse: Fendi (similar style here) (another similar style here)

A close-up of my handmade cuff bracelet (no similar style to show, because my mom made this one-of-a-kind bracelet!).

Product Review: L'Oreal True Match Roller Makeup

2010-04-05T19:00:00.001-04:00

I decided to buy the L'Oreal True Match Roller Makeup one day on a whim while shopping in a drugstore for stuff like paper towels and eyedrops (a true exhibition of the glamorous life I lead sometimes).

I bought mine in the Porcelain/Light Ivory color (they sell a decent selection of different colors). Unfortunately, I should have bought the next darker color, but I just layered this bronzer (which I bought as part of this blush/bronzer/nailpolish set) on top to give myself some color again. This foundation has an SPF 25, so it passes my SPF test.

I do not typically use drugstore makeup. I used to use an Almay foundation/powder combo in college and law school but found better options at the department store later on. I decided to buy this roller makeup for two reasons. First, pure curiosity. Can a tiny paint roller-esque brush really deliver satisfactory coverage? How does it manage to cover the areas around the nose, for example?

The second reason? I read one amazing review and decided, after reading her review, to test this product. She was also a department store/high-end foundation user who bought this foundation when she was traveling and didn't have her regular makeup.

My review? Absolutely excellent. The roller does a terrific job in providing even coverage. The nose/eye area can be a bit tricky the first few uses, but you figure it out quickly. I start by rolling the roller over the foundation a few times, then starting with my forehead, cheeks and chin, re-rolling as necessary, then finally my nose and small, hard-to-reach areas. I only need a few rolls across the foundation for my entire face. I have used this product alone (with just my bronzer/blush as usual) and also with my Bare Minerals Matte on top (we had a few annoyingly humid days for which I needed extra grease control). The makeup feels very light and comfortable. I also have very sensitive skin and many foundations cause breakouts, hives, and other nastiness. I have experienced none of this with this roller makeup!

The coverage lasts all day, and, as noted above, I only needed an additional powder during the day when I was faced with gross rain and humidity. I did not require any touchups when I wore the makeup to an outdoors little league practice and out running errands all day afterwards. My own mom even went to Target and bought the makeup after I told her about it. She wore it the next time I saw her and I thought the coverage on her was also terrific.

Have you tried this makeup yet? Are you curious about it but have hesitated in purchasing it?

Weekend Whimsy: New Duds and Dior Shoes

2010-04-04T22:00:00.001-04:00

This weekend was chock full of plans (taxes! groceries! revised budget! Pretty in Pink on DVR!) but I still found time to enjoy the amazing weather and stroll down some local blocks. I was actually just out for a quick walk to run some standard errands when I passed the New York & Co. store with a sign from the heavens -- 50% off the entire store! My husband called after I was missing for 90 minutes (I suppose he was thinking, "90 minutes to buy avocados and hair gel?"), and I sheepishly admitted that I got a wee bit sidetracked.

I tried on about 20 items all told, including this dress, this cardigan, this skirt and this shirt. For 50% off, why not?

I really liked this shirt dress (just in a different print) with a zippered front but I decided that since I already own about 5 shirtdresses (and 2 other dresses with zipper fronts) that this dress was not the best use of my money. Next!

This tunic top looked amazing when on display but was not as great as I hoped onced I put it on. I am actually holding it back with my other hand because it was very boxy. Next!

I settled on two button-front shirts, which I paired with these black jeans from White House Black Market and pointy-like-a-weapon Dior pumps for photo purposes. I spent about $30 for the two shirts. Shopping success!

I love this simple button-front shirt, in a subtle grey checkered pattern. I think it will look great with jeans and a simple summer skirt on weekends and with a classic pencil skirt for work.

I also bought this eyelet shirt in white (the store calls it "optic white"). I do not normally wear bright white, but something about this shirt appealed to me in a girly, springtime-ish way.

Shirt close-up.

Shoe close-up! These Dior pumps (sort of similar style found here that I would buy if I didn't already have these!) have about a 3-1/2 inch heel and the pointiest toes ever. I could probably use them as a self-defense tool if necessary.

How was your weekend? Did the Spring weather finally arrive?

For all of my new commenters from the past few day -- I am in the process of visiting your blogs! But you will hear from me eventually, even if it takes me a few days...

How To: Shop an Online Sample Sale

2010-04-02T16:00:00.002-04:00

Many people seem to shy away from shopping at one of the many online sample sale sites (my entire list, plus invitations, can be found by clicking here). I love these online sample sale sites -- amazing deals to be had from the confort of your own house, accessible to anyone, instead of the usual NYC sample sale which is accessible only to those that have the time to stand on a block-long line just to get inside. Sometimes you may be afraid to buy a clothing item because of possible fit issues. Or you may get discouraged when you find out the sale was sold out before you even logged on. I have therefore compiled a few tips to help you navigate the online sample sale world with confidence!

I snagged this Fendi purse for a very discounted price by following some of my below commandments (especially the one entitled "timing is crucial")!

1) Stalk, stalk, stalk: Join every site, and make sure you are receiving daily emails as to upcoming sales. Also check the sites themselves every few days and note if there are any upcoming sales that pique your interest. If you hate getting a barrage of emails in your inbox, create a separate email account just for shopping-related emails. Keep an eye out for your favorite makeup brands, clothing brands, purses, shoes, sunglasses, home goods, local spa treatments, etc. and note in your calendar which site has a sale you need and what time it begins.

2) Know your size: Nothing is more frustrating than seeing a terrific and heavily discounted item of clothing that you would love to have in your wardrobe, and then hestitating and eventually backing out because you are not sure if the item will fit. I am anywhere from a size 0 to a size 8 depending on the designer, clothing style, etc. so I cannot blindly assume I am a size 0 in everything if I buy it online. Therefore, know your size as to each designer. If you see that Joe's Jeans, for example, are coming up on sale in two days, and you would like to purchase a pair, head to a local store and try on Joe's Jeans and learn your size. If you see that Tracy Reese dresses are coming up on sale, try a few on and learn your size. Then, when the sale for that particular item begins, you do not need to waste time worrying about which size to order.

3) Timing is crucial: Imagine that you spot a sale for Fendi purses. The sale starts at 11am. Would you stroll on over at 11:01 in the real world? Yeah, maybe. Would you log on at 11:01 to the sale if you knew that 10,000 other women across the country were also waiting to snag one of those 20 Fendi purses? No, you would be hitting "refresh" repeatedly starting at 10:59 (true story!). Therefore, know the time the sale begins and be there early! Hit refresh every 5 seconds if need be, so you are inside the sale site within seconds of the sale going public. If you get to a popular sale even a minute after it begins, don't be shocked to see items already on hold or sold out.

4) Don't be afraid to refer others: Most sites offer a referral credit if you refer a friend and that person buys something. Credits range from $5 to $25 depending on the site. Your friend may need an invite to sign up anyway, so look at it as a win-win -- you might get a credit, and your friend gets immediate access.

5) Keep an open mind: You may be inclined to immediately shun a designer whose name you do not recognize and only go after the "big designers" with instant name recognition. This is a mistake! You will not recognize the name of everyone out there, but that doesn't mean they don't offer wonderful items. When skimming a sale, keep an open mind and look for quality and usefulness over brand recognition.

6) Join Facebook/Twitter for the sites: Many of the online sample sale sites have Facebook fan pages (or twitter updates). Join! You will often get advance notice of a special sale, information on a contest, and sometimes even a code for free shipping.

7) Be aware that delivery is not instantaneous: If you desire instant gratification, go to a store (and possibly pay full price). If you are eager to find a discount, then accept the reality that the item may take a week, or up to four sometimes, to arrive. It more or less depends on whether the online sample sale site has your item already (shipping time may be quick) or whether they need to go back to the designer, wait for that shipment, then turn around and re-ship the item out to you (longer shipping time).

Good luck, and happy shopping!

How I Wore It: Grey Dress and Mandarin-Style Coat

2010-04-01T19:33:00.001-04:00

I decided to take advantage of my husband's willingness to stand on the balcony in the cold this past weekend and take photos of me, so I quickly threw on a grey dress I wear to work. Usually I would wear this dress with a cardigan, but I think you've all seen enough of those for the time being! So I threw on this amazing coat that I bought at Pearl River Mart in Chinatown last year for a whopping $60. Look sharp, because I am also wearing my $5 fake pearls (read my "Build a Wardrobe: Classic Pearl Necklace" post by clicking here).

Keep in mind as you gaze at my bare legs, arms and sandals that the temperature was hovering at the 40 or so degree mark. Toasty, yeah. I do a good job at looking au natural given the circumstances. This was also a remarkably quick shoot, because my husband and I did not want to spend more than 30 seconds outside. As proof, we ordered in both lunch and dinner. Well, not only were we cold, but we were lazy. Not like we couldn't have strolled across the street to the giant supermarket, heh.

The "classy lady" shot. Sir, can you please call my car for me? I am late for my lunch at Takashimaya.

The "I'm wearing a dress, and feelin' sassy so look at my belt while I strut around" shot.

The "my coat fell off, and I mean business so don't mess with me" shot.

Coat detail! Black woven material over a nude underlay. Three cheers to the husband for telling me to turn around, then taking this photo.

The details:

Coat: Shanghai Soho (from Pearl River Mart) (click here and here for similar Mandarin-influenced coats, the second coat being really really pricey, or just go to Pearl River Mart)

Dress: Banana Republic (click here, here and here for grey dresses)

Belt: White House Black Market (click here and here for similar styles, both from White House Black Market as well)

Shoes: Impo (click here and here for similar styles)

Purse: random vendor at a flea market in Florida (click here, here and here for similar pink sparkly clutches, one cheap, one average, and one insanely expensive four figure purse)

Necklace: fake pearls for $5 from a store stuffed with "stuff" on 14th Street near Union Square (click here for detailed pearls post, along with a plethora of pearl suggestions)

Special Note #1: I am releasing my next giveaway when I reach 85 followers or 120 subscribers, whatever occurs first. The bath/beauty product is by Philosophy!

Special Note #2: I broke the news last week of Modnique, a new online sample sale site. I am so far mucho impressed with the items offered and the discounts (80%+ in some instances). I know two women who bought designer sunglasses within a day of signing up on the site. I still cannot personally attest to delivery timing, etc. but if you have any experience feel free to let us all know. Because this is a new site, I suggest you sign up now before everyone else catches on. Click here for your invitation.

NYC Beauty Bash via Groupon

2010-03-31T16:45:00.001-04:00

If you don't have a Groupon account, I highly suggest getting one! Click here for access. Even though this deal is NYC-specific, Groupon offers deals in dozens of other cities as well, so you might want to sign up anyway. I've so far bought a half-price facial and a set of pilates classes throught Groupon, so I can personally attest to the terrific deals offered.

Today's deal is a VIP ticket to the Beauty Bash at Hudson Terrace (3 separate dates available) for $35, normally $75. This ticket includes open martini bar and product samples. You get a lot of other "stuff" thrown in with your ticket, like mini-massages, free food, etc. You can only score this reduced price today, so act fast. I hope you enjoy the event!

Product Reviews: Brow Gel

2010-03-31T06:30:00.001-04:00

Welcome to the land of the former unruly brow. It has now long been tweezed into submission (I have even received compliments on my brows by straight boys, if you can believe it). But never underestimate the power of the fully groomed brow -- not just tweezed, but set with brow gel.

I suggest two brow gels -- as is my habit, I offer up an expensive brow gel and a frugalicious brow gel. Depending on my financial situation and desire to waste money in Sephora, I alternate between these two products.

For a nice alternate use, try using your brow gel wand on the little whispy and annoying flyaway hairs near the hairline. The hairs get pushed back and held in place by the gel.

If you want the non-frugal brow gel:

Use this Anastasia Brow Gel, sold at Sephora (and probably many other places). Each tube lasts a long time and the gel comes out uniformly and doesn't leave any residue on the eyebrow. It is not often that I will spend $21 on clear gel, for crying out loud. I have used several tubes of this brow gel and will no doubt use many more.

If you want the frugal brow gel:

Use this Cover Girl clear mascara (it isn't a brow gel, technically, at all!). I have experimented with other drugstore brow gels and none can possibly compare to using Cover Girl's clear mascara (which, brilliantly enough, can therefore be used as both clear mascara and brow gel, meaning that one cheap tube solves multiple problems). It may come out of the tube a little thicker than the Anastasia Brow Gel, but just apply with a lighter hand. The holding and sculpting power is excellent.

Readers: Do you have a favorite brow gel? Do you consider brow gel to be a waste of money? Have you ever used clear mascara as your brow gel?

How I Wore It: Floral Silhouette Cardigan

2010-03-29T23:59:00.000-04:00

Just last week I wrote about my new Ann Taylor Loft Floral Silhouette Cardigan, the product of a tiny weekend shopping spree. I decided to take my new cardigan out for a stroll to the office, pairing it with a simple black skirt and some terrific heels. I really love the bright colors in the cardigan and the terrific floral print. Not only does it mesh well with a work skirt, but it also looks great with jeans. I decided to go with a slightly flared skirt this time instead of my usual pencil skirt.

The Foral Silhouette Cardigan, as a reminder:

And how I wore it (with my husband now performing the role of photographer, and the balcony acting as my current backdrop):

Cardigan: Ann Taylor Loft Floral Silhouette Cardigan (read this post to see suggestions of other floral cardigans)

Tee: a random black tee from my vast collection (read this post to learn all about finding your perfect tee)

Skirt: Cynthia Steffe (under $100 suggestion) (over $100 suggestion)

Shoes: Stuart Weitzman patent mary janes (similar style here) (another similar style here)

A Quick Weekend Update

2010-03-29T00:10:00.001-04:00

Virtually no time to spend at the computer this weekend... apologies!

Here is quick rundown:

1) I received a new "present" in the mail (can it really be a present if I order it myself?). I will review said mystery present in about two weeks once I have a chance to form an educated opinion. Hints: this liquid-ish product comes in a stopper bottle.

2) Rock of Ages, the Broadway musical, is fantastic.

3) I have been using that L'Oreal roller foundation for about 10 days, Major thumbs up so far. Again, a detailed review to follow in about a week, when I hit the two week mark of usage!

4) My husband became the official Deconstructed Life photographer. Our balcony became the official Deconstructed Life warm-weather photo backdrop. Oh, and it wasn't warm this weekend, so when I post those photos in the coming week you should all congratulate me for my bravery and for shouldering the damp and dreary chill with such bravado and grace.

5) I ate a remarkable amount of chocolate-covered matzah. This will no doubt continue throughout Passover.

6) I managed to dye my hair and not get dye on any part of the bathroom. I am waiting for my medal, but it must still be in the mail.

7) I used this nailpolish color for my pedicure, and daresay, I like it, even though I generally aim for darker colors!

8) My next giveaway will happen when I hit 85 followers or 120 subscribers. Ambitious of me! So, if you want a giveaway, follow, follow, follow and/or subscribe, subscribe, subscribe. I've got something from Philosophy that may have your name on it...