Get Twisted!

Dear Girlfriends

I recently discovered Pantene Pro-V Relaxed & Natural hair care for Women of Color and being a women of color myself, I was excited to try this product out!  

Have you ever had a time when you got excited about trying a new product?  Well this past weekend, it was my time!  I discovered fabulous haircare beauty by Pantene in a bottle.

I must say over the past weekend I was looking forward to the Intensive Moisturizing Shampoo that I would soon give to my hair.  It actually was an oil-enriched feeling I had after lathering it up a few times through the whole shampoo wash I was able to exhale the cleaniness of it all.

Pantene Relaxed & Natural Women of Color Moisturizing Shampoo

Adding the Pantene Pro-V Relaxed & Natural for Women of Color Intensive Moisturizing Conditioner was the icing on the cake!   With me having natural hair, sometimes it can be unmanageable.  After using the conditioner, it feels great to the touch and easy to comb through.

Pantene Relaxed & Natural Women of Color Moisturizing Conditioner

On the following day, I was tempted to tray the deep conditioning mask for my hair.  It was intense … in a good way.  It allowed all the deep penetration to flow through my natural hair and kept my hair smooth, manageable and well-balanced.  As a woman of color, I can’t say more about the Pantene Pro-V Relaxed & Natural for Women of Color Breakage Defense Deep Conditioning Mask … from my first experience it was the best deep conditioning product around.  You really don’t have to keep it on long … it is truly a deep conditioning mask.  Pantene has outdone themselves with this one!  

Pantene Deep Conditioning Mask

Overall, I love that Pantene has made a line for women of color. I’ve used Pantene products before the relaxed and natural line came out and they worked well but this is perfect for me and my natural hair type.  Its a lifestyle!

Hey fabulous women of color … what more can I say than to try it yourself?

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Comments (0)

Dear Girlfriends:

Go for black & gold accessories and no not because my hometown New Orleans Saints won their first Super Bowl ever … go for black and gold because gilded accents keep your fall/winter neutrals from fading into the background of fashion.

Let’s look at some winning combinations of black and gold accessories ….  use these styles as options for your look and shop around for bargains and frugalista finds today and this weekend!

These distressed suede sandals feature antiqued studs. 2 buckled straps at side. 1.5″ leather-covered platform and 4.75″ leather-covered wedge heel.

Ash Lovely Suede Wedge Sandals

Luxury with a bohemian flair, this suede handbag features black and gold chain and suede fringe at the front and a logo plate at the back. Seam detail at top. Gold hardware. Studs at double handles and magnetic-snap closure at main compartment. Lined interior features zip and 2 patch pockets.

Rich Hippie Tote

This 24k gold-plated ring features snake-embossed leather detail at the domed disc. 1.25″ wide.

Stamped Python Ring

This leather bracelet features gold-plated cone studs. Ring-and-toggle clasp. 1.5″ wide. 7.25″ long.

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Cuff

This pebbled leather handbag features an oversized logo medallion at the front flap. Zip pocket under flap. Gold hardware. Detachable resin chain strap.

Bijou Clutch

These electroplated 22k gold earrings feature Swarovski crystals and resin cabochons at the teardrop details. Post closure. 2.75″ long.

Kenneth Lane Black Cabochon Earrings

This 4-strand necklace features metallic wooden beads. Contrast grosgrain tie closure. 28″ long.

Gold Wood Bead Necklace

Girlfriends, remember to go for GOLD … that is black and gold!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Comments (0)

Dear Girlfriends,

I discovered that its never to late for wearing white … you just have to pair it with black and contrasting is a BIG part of the story! 

Styiling tips for wearing black and white are here, fashionistas we can start here!  This strapless polka-dot silk jumpsuit features a sweetheart neckline and gathered elastic banding at the top hem and empire waist. On-seam hip pockets.

DVF Marron Jumpsuit

Let’s consider some of these options:

This double-breasted stretch-wool tuxedo jacket features a 2-button closure and a satin shawl collar. Welt bust pocket and welt hip pockets. Pointed hem at front and tuxedo tails at back. Satin trim at cuff slit.

Conductor's Jacket by Haute Hippie

Girlfriends, this draped, star-print top features a V neck and racer back. Inverted front pleat.  This necklace features distressed gold-plated, silver-plated, and black discs. Assorted gold-plated beads at lobster-claw clasp.

Sao Paolo Tank

Elastic Belt Skirt

This silk skirt features a wrap detail and an asymmetrical hem. Contrast elastic banding and pleating at waist.  A timeless style in an on-trend animal print, these zebra-print haircalf booties feature a covered elastic inset at the inner side and vertical suede banding at the back.

Zebra Pipe Cover Pumps

A street-chic version of a functional style, this oversized, print PVC handbag features a resin logo plate and snap side gussets. Enameled hardware.

LAMB Tote

Again don’t be afraid to try this pairing … simply black and white!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Comments (0)

High Waist Straight Leg Jeans

Dear Girlfriends ~

On Saturdays we all have places to go, things to do and people to see.  Saturday is a day of running errands!  And what better way to make your errands go a little smoother than with the Saturday essentials. 

Start with a military-inspired jacket/coat to pair on top your denim leggings.  This double-breasted canvas coat features a zip-off hood and fold-over collar. 6-button closure and 6-button detail. Button-flap and zip hip pockets.  This double-breasted military-style jacket with side pockets and center-back smocking for better fit.

Tony Military Hooded Coat

Ruffles add femininity to this fresh military-style jacket from Free People. 

Free People Ruffled Military Jacket

Girlfriends when considering what to wear at the bottom (smile) consider anything from denim jeans, leggings or stylish pants.  These corduroy skinny pants feature 5-pocket styling and a single-button closure. 

Skinny Corduroy Pants

These light-wash, straight-leg jeans feature 5-pocket styling and a single-button closure. Two-tone stitching at back pockets and whiskering at front. Shredded holes, worn spots, and moderate distressing.

This linen-jersey tee features a wide neck and a vertical back seam. Elbow-length dolman sleeves.  Look cool while keeping warm in this long-sleeved thermal top from Lucky. Featuring a split neckline, allover ribbing, LOVE print across the chest, a multi-colored peace sign at the side chest with frayed embroidered trim, contrast stitching and a shirttail hem, you’ll love this trendy long-sleeved thermal top.

Michele Tee

Lucky Long-Sleeve Love Tee

A fun unfinished hem adds chic casual styling to this Lucky Brand Jeans thermal tee.

 along with the clothing options you must consider the accessories!  The ever important Saturday essential.  Going from a stylish handbag to a chic watch to a fab scarf  – these are all a part of your Saturday!

Lucky Brand Crewneck Tee

Girlfriends,

This oversized watch features a leather band, studs, and a square case.  This glazed, wrinkled leather handbag features a tasseled drawstring and magnetic closure at the patch front pocket. Metal nuts and resin logo beads at tassel.

La Mer Collection Watch

Marc by Marc Jacobs Hobo

This leather wrap bracelet features a textured 18k gold-plated chain. Ring-and-toggle clasp. This handmade, tie-dye woven scarf features fringe at the ends.

Chelsea Double Wrap Bracelet

Bambi Bianca Scarf

When deciding what to wear on Saturday for errands, don’t forget to consider the essentials and have fun with your wardrobe!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Comments (0)

Maternal America Red Front Tie Dress

Dear Girlfriends ~ 

As many of my fashionistas and girlfriends know,  I am expecting a baby boy in April and the hubby and I are very excited.  With the excitement comes my intense efforts to remain stylish while pregnant.  I am currently in my fifth month and haven’t bought a single piece of maternity clothing (except a NY Giants shirt for the MNF game a few weeks ago)!  I am elated.  When I do eventualy gain a few more pounds, I plan to continue this pattern with stylish tunic and leggings OR a dress with opaque patterned tights and wedge boots.

There isn’t a rule that a pregnant women can’t be glam and must look frumpy.  Who told you ladies that?  Its easy to carry a little glam in your maternity clothes by following a few key steps.

Visiting a maternity shop can allow you to find styles that are trendy and comfortable. Comfort is very important to the dress of pregnant women. It is wise to find items that aren’t too tight, but look good.

Even if you can’t find a good maternity shop, all is not lost. Most department stores, even budget ones, have maternity departments. If you’re unsure at first, try a few items on before you buy them. This is the best way, to determine, if the clothing size, color, and style suit you. Don’t forget the wealth of the internet.

You’ll love this paisley print with banded neckline and lantern sleeves. Always a bestseller, Maternal America’s front tie dress is flattering and stylish. Cross front with tie makes this easy to wear. Tie can be worn in front below vneck or tied in back.

Everly Grey Sonya Maternity Dress

 

 

C&C Turtleneck Dress

Girlfriends, certain styles look especially good on pregnant women such as A-line skirts, empire-waist dresses and tops, and pencil skirts paired with swingy shirts. If you are feeling really self-conscious about your changing body accentuate other parts of your body that you feel more comfortable with.

NOM Print Wrap Dress

Mezzanine Maternity Jeans

Ella Moss styles and fabrics will work well through your pregnancy and are equally as stylish afterward. This stylish colorblock tunic looks great with pants,leggings, or jeans.

Ella Moss Harpo Tunic

So elegant, I love the simplicity (with a twist) of this maternity dress. It has an innate sense of style for day or evening.

The Knot Dress

To get people to notice your neck and shoulders choose a shirt with a ballet-cut or bateau neckline, or dress all in one color and add a scarf or some other stunning accessory. Then people will notice you’re accessories and after your pregnancy you won’t feel bad that you spent money on them because you can keep on wearing them. Some accessories could be a brightly colored piece of jewelry, a pair of shoes that match your handbag, a colorful scarf or a button-up sweater.

Pregginistas, many maternity offerings, are online for customers to take advantage of. If nothing else, you will be able to get ideas on style, you like.  A money-saving tip for maternity clothing shopping is to avoid impulse buying. Make a list of a few must-have items that can go with almost everything.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica the Pregginista

Comments (0)

Dear Girlfriends -

Whether they’re bright and bulky or full and fierce, the chunky choker is poised to be one of the biggest trends to date even for the Christmas and New Year’s holiday parties and soirees you will be attending – hooray!  I adore this easy piece for several simple reasons: it adds some posh pizazz to the wardrobe essentials you already own, looks great with everything from a casual blazer to a killer cocktail dress, and there are cool versions available at every price point. In short, this all-purpose accessory is at the top of our list!

This chain necklace features rhinestone-studded cutout flower details. Textured flower details at assorted cutout pendants.  Just as sensational with a LBD (little black dress) as it is with a tank and jeans, this chain bib necklace features bead details.

Lace Drama Necklace

Jen Bib Necklace

Sure to garner a second (or third) glance, this multi-strand mixed-chain necklace features rhinestone strand and asymmetrical chain fringe. 

Fashionistas, this wool-cashmere bib necklace features studs, brass chains, distressed leather appliqué, and vintage glass accents. Chiffon trim and contrast grosgrain tie closure.  Or consider this statement choker.  These capsule shaped beads with a pearl-esque finish are linked together in a bib like formation which drapes beautifully from a dainty chain.

Multi Chain Choker

Rambler Necklace

Pearly Beaded Bin

This gold-plated choker features hammered squares. This herringbone wool-cashmere necklace features brass chain detail. Clustered leather-covered stones, glass beads, brass studs, and distressed beads. Bone beads, African brass beads, and garnet stones at ends. A beautiful combination of Mother of Pearl, quartz, Swarovski crystals and glass beads wired within several arcs of sterling silver necklace finsished off with dangling Mother of Pearl stars.

Hammered Square Choker

Herringbone Cashmere Choker

Mother of Pearl Choker

Sequin Spinning Bib

Girlfriends, these necklaces are so necessary this season that we suggest that you throw on at least one chunky choker-or several-every day. (When you’re wearing a mélange of chains, the more the merrier!) If you feel overwhelmed by the look or don’t know where to start wearing it, just take inspiration from the fall runways on how to combine the right statement strands with the correct clothing.

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Comments (0)

Dear Girlfriends ~

Are you crazy about colossal cuffs as much as I am?  I’ve learned to pair a bold piece of arm candy into everyday outfits and especially now during the holidays and all the festivities!  Its simply a matter of adding a piece without overdoing it.  To get an idea of how to show off your bold arm candy properly consider these style options.

An exquisite grey shagreen cuff creates a perfect perch for a jeweled sterling silver bug encrusted with rubies, sapphires, green agates and crystals. Because each piece is handcrafted by an artisan, expect yours to have subtle nuances all its own.

Shagreen Cuff

Inspired by tropical islands and exotic locales, this statement piece sets the style for your total look. Gold-tone intricate design with brilliant coral-colored stones for an unforgettable bracelet.  Girlfriends, consider this handmade brass cuff as a style option. A high polished metal cuff bracelet featuring a faux leather top with sewn-down faceted studs.

This option offers a wide cuff featuring agate stone front and hammered texture detail.

Adia Kibur Gold Jewel Cuff

Stud Metal Cuff

Handmade Brass Cuff

Still not sure how to begin? 

Agate Stone Cuff Bracelet

Amp up your rock-chic kudos with Halston’s studded blue suede cuff. Wear this sensational style with a floor-skimming gown to bring Studio 54 glamour to every look.

Stud Embellished Cuff

Gold Plated Cuff

Girlfriends, a collectible cuff that our jewelry designer took ages to perfect–a layered look in gold-plated metal designed to dress up your wrist.

Beaded Cuff Bracelet

Maria Cuff

A bold piece of arm candy can one day be your favorite accessory! A piece that pops on in a flash and transforms whatever you are wearing into a work of art!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Comments (0)

Dear Girlfriends -

With a smaller budget for a lot of Americans currently in this bad economy, you should consider buying items that do not change depending on your weight such accessories.

Adia Kibur Gold Jewel Cuff

Faux Pearl Necklace

We are all experiencing budget control and frugal shopping, for the everday fashionista (including you and I) we should consider adding accessories as a staple item to our basic wardrobe this year.

Ciel Stars Scarf

Shredded Tube Scarf

With a lot of fashionistas on a tighter budget, try to purchase items to accessorize the clothing that you already have, instead of buying new clothes.

Girlfriends, accessories may be scarves which are very popular currently and not very expensive, belts, and jewelry. Unique costume jewelry may be bought for a little investment and can totally bring life back to an old outfit that has been in your closet for a while . And just like shoes, jewelry and accessories always fit no matter what your size is!

Vintage Glam

Shilo Necklace

Patent Skinny Belt

Girlfriends, this season do not worry about your tighter budget or your increasing weight and spend your money on handbags, shoes and accessories. You bank account and self esteem will be more thankful when you do, rather than having to buy more clothing this year and you will look fabulous too.

I’ll turn you into a frugalista soon enough!

Until the next style adventure,

Monica

Comments (0)