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Articles This Month
· Annick Goutal Les Nuits d'Hadrien
· Updates on Annick Goutal samples
· Globe Trotter (part 4)
· Beauty Notes (6.25.07)
· A quick break to review...
· Globe Trotter (part 3)
· Globe Trotter (part 2)
· the great Miles Davis
· Globe Trotter (part 1)
· Opalis Hair Care?
· Nars duo eyeshadow ponderings...
· Day 2 of Annick Goutal Neroli and Songes
· Sisley
· Premature reviews for Annick Goutal Songes and Neroli
· Side note about biotin supplement
· Aedes.com samples arrive...
· I wonder what the best multipurpose salve is?
· Aedes.com: seven samples for $15 rides again
· Where to buy Anthelios?
· Best shampoo without sulfates
· Dude, we're getting a Sephora!
· Brigitte Bardot
· Blood Sweat and Tears: Or How I Stopped Worrying and Learned to Love Fashion
· Update on biotin for hair loss
· Closing in on a signature lipstick
· Re: Colleen's post...
· Stash musings
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Comments
· June 29, 2007 3:12 PM by
Dain
· June 29, 2007 9:44 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 30, 2007 2:38 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 27, 2007 8:32 AM by
cmm
· June 27, 2007 9:51 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 29, 2007 3:21 PM by
Dain
· June 20, 2007 6:44 AM by
Dain
· June 20, 2007 6:45 AM by
Dain
· June 20, 2007 1:06 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 18, 2007 4:59 PM by
Dain
· June 18, 2007 6:05 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 18, 2007 6:08 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 18, 2007 10:33 PM by
cmm
· June 19, 2007 6:34 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 19, 2007 9:15 PM by
cmm
· June 13, 2007 8:55 PM by
Dain
· June 14, 2007 9:21 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 13, 2007 9:49 AM by
cmm
· June 13, 2007 9:56 AM by
cmm
· June 13, 2007 5:11 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 12, 2007 1:55 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 12, 2007 5:49 PM by
Dain
· June 12, 2007 6:31 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 8, 2007 1:58 PM by
cmm
· June 8, 2007 6:31 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 11, 2007 7:02 AM by
Katherine
· June 11, 2007 7:57 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 7, 2007 2:00 AM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 7, 2007 3:08 AM by
Dain
· June 7, 2007 1:09 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 8, 2007 8:59 AM by
cmm
· June 8, 2007 1:23 PM by
Dain
· June 8, 2007 6:46 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 10, 2007 6:14 PM by
Dain
· June 11, 2007 1:17 AM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 11, 2007 1:19 AM by
Colleen Shirazi
· June 3, 2007 8:36 AM by
cmm
· June 3, 2007 9:49 PM by
Colleen Shirazi
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The Lipstick Page Forums Beauty & Fashion Blog: June 2007
Annick Goutal Les Nuits d'Hadrien
Posted by Colleen Shirazi, Friday, June 29, 2007 2:25 AM (Eastern)
I tried this out again today. On me, it's a bit gorgeous, but surprisingly faint, compared to the original Eau d'Hadrien.
Perhaps it's unfair to compare the two, but it was the spareness and lucidity of Eau d'Hadrien, the simple two notes of lemon and cypress, citrus and herb, that was pure unadulterated genius.
Les Nuits... has the citrus, but the other notes in it seem to mute rather than add. Oh I doubt I'm being fair. Some perfumes need a heavier application to stand out, for example, Etro Heliotrope. At first I deemed it a weak perfume, until I got a bottle of it and started spraying.
I'll try it out again tomorrow.
Labels: annick goutal, perfume, perfume reviews
Updates on Annick Goutal samples
Posted by Colleen Shirazi, Wednesday, June 27, 2007 10:26 PM (Eastern)
I've been slowly wending my way through my aedes.com samples of Annick Goutal.Thus far, oddly enough, since I don't think of myself as attracted to "powdery" scents, it is Heure Exquise which stands out. It has an eternal quality. Powdery fragrances can so easily smell, well, cheap, or generic, which is worse than cheap...Heure Exquise emerges because it has sufficient individuality.
Neroli is still in the running; I've worn it several times. Here it would depend on how you feel about citrus scents; it's almost as citrus as it is floral. Songes remains on my first-pass list as well.
I've briefly tried (or retried, rather) Gardenia Passion and Nuits d'Hadrien. Gardenia Passion is easily the best, most authentic gardenia perfume I've tried. You'd have to be nuts about gardenias however; it is what it says it is, just gardenia. Nuits...I'll need to try some more before commenting.
Rose Absolue...I've decided against, for purely personal reasons; I'm not a rose gal after all. That would explain why I've gravitated toward many a rose perfume over the years, from Evelyn by Crabtree & Evelyn, to Stella by Stella McCartney, to Rose Absolue itself--it's a rich, classical rose; deep red, many-petaled and velvet--rather than a light, modern, tinny rose--but never bought one.Passion is what I'm wearing today. I can't decide whether I like it or not. It honestly smells like something I smelled in the 1970's, but I can't put my finger on it. It's not unpleasant. Just...eh...not me.
images courtesy annickgoutal.nl
Labels: annick goutal, perfume
Globe Trotter (part 4)
Posted by Dain, Tuesday, June 26, 2007 3:21 AM (Eastern)
MAKE UP YOUR MIND
Since you've already packed such a nice clutch, it will double as a makeup bag while you're in transit. I know there are women who don't feel right without makeup on their faces, but I strongly urge not wearing any. Traveling is dirty business, so the cleaner your face, the better, which is why I would only carry cleansing wipes and an all purpose salve. If you must wear something while in transit, keep it restrained to concealer, mascara, and a versatile lip/cheek color, like Becca Beach Tint or Stila Convertible Color, and this is at the most.
Bring the bare minimum—the most essential, the most flattering products—and leave experimentation at home. For me, this is undereye concealer, cream blush, ultra black mascara and liner, eyelash curler, a sweetly shimmering wash to open up eyes (though you can cheat with a well chosen quad or quint), a favorite lippie, and tweezers. This are just the essentials for me (concealer, blush, and lush lashes), with just a little extra for some additional polish (eyeshadow, lip color, and tweezers). But needs differ; for example, I don't use foundation, while it may be a necessary for someone else.
It was an unfortunate thing when they discontinued Stephane Marais Perfect Concealer, because it's superlative; a small dab will effectively and invisibly cover dark circles. Buy the more expensive incarnation from Clé de Peau ($68). My favorite blush is NARS Sin, but I think Stila Orchid Convertible Color ($22), a cool rose-berry, might have a similar doll-face effect. It's a cream, thus it requires no blush brush, as well as doing double-duty as lip tint. Plus, the mirrored compact allows for touchups anywhere. Concealer and blush are foolproof ways to wake up any face. L'Oreal Voluminous has been my favorite mascara for years: it's cheap, readily available, and plumps up fine lashes beautifully (I imagine it clumps on fuller lashes). I'm not even tempted to stray. That is, until L'Oreal introduced the Carbon Black ($6.99) shade, and I've fallen even more deeply in love. This is, as the name implies, a really intense, rich black, a very important detail when you have black hair to begin with. I've also discovered that an equally intense black liner, smudged between lashes on the inner rim, creates an almost-false-lash effect, adding fullness and definition that was never there to begin with, but without adding more gunk to your eyelashes. I started with Too Faced Lava Gloss, but I think it's too expensive, even if it's a completely unique formula. So where can I find a cheap, creamy but longlasting pencil in a really rich black? I've heard great things about Jordana Color XTend Eyeliner in Black Out ($2.49). I always start this highly involved lash process with Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler ($18). I favor reds, berries, and roses on my lips and cheeks, and the softly greyed lilac shimmer of CHANEL Lavande Soft Touch Eye Shadow ($27.50) not only complements my cheeks and lips, but also flatters my brown eyes and it lifts tiredness away. And, I don't know, there's just something about purple eyeshadow that makes me feel like a fairy. NARS Gothika Lip Gloss ($23) is my favorite lipcolor: a burnished rose shimmer infused with berry tones, like a grown-up version of my first favorite lipstick, Jane Loco Cocoa. I wouldn't have thought that Tweezerman Slant Tweezers ($20) would be necessary, but I find that if I don't pack them, I miss them. They're just really useful, and well groomed brows instantly frame the face.
To this, you need only add something for going out. I've included two options here, for the sake of argument (does one emphasize eyes, or lips?), but really, you only need one, as long as it's a good one.
I would have never thought that blue would be so flattering until I tried my friend's CHANEL Blue Notes Quadra Eye Shadow $55. A rich navy does complement brown eyes well, but blues, for the most part, are either completely grey and blah, or an unnatural apparition on the skin. Blue Notes, by contrast, exudes mystery, especially that darker blue as a liner (over MAC Teddy Eye Kohl, not included here), and the pink or sky blue as an ethereal wash. The white is useless, in my opinion (a soft grey like NARS Bombshell would have been much wiser), but there it is. And how badly do I want Giorgio Armani Armanisilk #46 Bordeaux ($25)? I've contemplated red lipsticks for a long time without committing to one, and there's many an excellent red out there, but when by some chance I tried this one on at Holt's in Montreal and... sometimes when you've found the ONE, you just know. Fifteen minutes later, I had received half a dozen compliments, including this one, "If you don't own that lipstick, you have to buy it. Because you really ought to wear it every day."
BAG O' MINIS
Travel sizes and kits have always struck me as a little awkward. Who uses them? Who would want to? But they're nice to have when you're short on space, and I've managed to hunt down a few that are quite luxe enough to be a pleasure to use.
The miniature two-ounce bottle of Dr. Bronner's Lavender Magic Soap ($2.49) is a perfect multipurpose sudser; I'd use it as a body wash and as a gentle laundry detergent, while the fresh, soothing scent of lavender delights the senses. Dr. Bronner's is a hippie classic. In fact, I read somewhere that this soap has tested positive for liquid ecstasy, is that true? That might explain the label. The two-ounce Weleda's Rose Deodorant ($9) is gentle, perfectly travel-worthy, and scented with heavenly rose. Bumble & Bumble Gentle Shampoo ($7) and Super Rich Conditioner ($8) is a fragrant and nourishing combination that won't miss. The two-ounce bottles are perfect for travel, though I'd take two bottles of the conditioner for my long hair. The gorgeous vintage stylings and fresh, natural taste of Marvis Classic Strong Mint Toothpaste ($4.50) can be had in this adorable mini size. I can't live without my Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser ($6), and it comes in a four-ounce size worthy of travel. And though not a travel size, this little one-ounce vial of Burt's Bees Repair Serum ($15) tucks away easily into the smallest of spaces. The one I'm interested in is the Light version that has only just come out, so the miniatures are not available yet. However, you can get the original Dr. Hauschka Rose Day Cream ($6.50) travel size.
Instead of lugging around an entire bottle of perfume, a perfume oil is subtler (very snuggly) and infinitely more travel-friendly. Volupsa Pink Fatale ($24) is not only covered in gorgeous swirly art-deco pink floral, topped with a gold knob and a black bow, it's also the most charming scent: soft warm skin musk tempered with a little white floral. It's the sort of perfume that disappears if you sniff too aggressively, but when you leave it alone, it wafts the most beautiful sillage that people will demand to know what it is.
CREATURE COMFORTS
Some products may seem very inessential at first, but when you arrive at your destination and have these products on hand, you will be very grateful that you did bring them.
A body oil? you say? Yes! You will be surprised at the multitude of uses you can put Jo Wood Organics USIKU Body Oil ($110), a healing blend of skin-friendly oils in a spicy-earthy gorgeous scent of rosemary, pine, cardamom, ginger, coriander, clove, clary sage, cedarwood, patchouli and vetiver. It's not just for your body. It's brilliant on hair before going out in the sun, where it'll warm up like a hot oil treatment, and it'll do a number on rough cuticles and scaly feet. My skin and hair always get completely frazzled in the sun and surf. In a pinch, it'll even function as perfume.
Part 5, coming up, a final summary.
Labels: bioderma, burt's bees, chanel, dr. hauschka, jo wood organics, jordana, l'occitane, stephane marais, voluspa
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June 27, 2007 8:32 AM, cmm said...
Just wanted to add that the Loreal Mascara works just as well on my eyelashes. I do have fairly thick lashes, thick, lots of them, but they are short. June 27, 2007 9:51 PM, Colleen Shirazi said...
I was wondering where the heck you were! :) That's terrific that you have a pool. Just the thing for summer. June 29, 2007 3:21 PM, Dain said...
I can't do waterproof. I'm bad enough at removing the stuff in the first place, but I'm thinking of seeking out a good makeup remover. I'm glad to hear Voluminous works for fuller lashes, though. You know this was Kevyn Aucoin's fave? He used this and Shu Uemura Basic (which is a much more natural look), but he loved Voluminous the most. |
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Beauty Notes (6.25.07)
Posted by Dain, Monday, June 25, 2007 12:15 PM (Eastern)
I have found my new perfume obsession...
The best skincare endorsements are personal recommendations from models.
1. Bioderma Créaline H20 Cleansing Solution: A dizzying number of models swear by this as the most gentle, effective cleanser/makeup remover. It is not available in the US, but you can buy it at www.leguidesante.com, along with Bioderma's top-of-the-line sunscreen, Photoderm MAX Lait SPF 50+, which is said to beat even Anthelios in wearability. I don't use makeup remover, but I'm starting to think I should, because instead I just rub at my eyes with a towel, and that's a really bad habit. Other cleansers oft quoted: Cetaphil, Lancome Bi-Facil, and Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil. No brainers there, they're all gentle industry favorites, and with the exception of Cetaphil, famed makeup removers.
2. They adore Dr. Hauschka. The Cleansing Cream and Rose Day Cream are particularly favored, though neither really worked for me. The Cleansing Cream had some allergen to which I reacted badly, and the Rose Day Cream was much too occlusive. But the Facial Toner is fantastic; it's the only toner I'd use, and Daria Werbowy is a huge fan of the Quince Day Cream, which is much nicer than the Rose in my opinion.
3. There's less of a concensus when it comes to favorite moisturizers. But one seems to emerge, again and again, Embryolisse Lait-Cr*egrave;me Concentré 24-Hour Miracle Cream, which is a very simple, gentle, and effective moisturizer that models swear by to repair "damage" from the shows. I'm dying to try it; I'm still looking for an HG moisturizer, and this sounds like the Cetaphil among moisturizers. Too bad www.leguidesante.com doesn't carry it, because I could buy Crealine, Photoderm, and Embryolisse all together in fell swoop.
4. Plenty of water and rest, as well as a healthy diet, though the latter I remain dubious of; it seems more reflective of the standard model starvation technique. I don't really eat much in terms of vegetables (I love my steak frites with blue cheese, my barbecue ribs, and fried chicken, plus I avoid salads for the most part and am allergic to the vast majority of fruits), and I have pretty fine skin myself.
5. Miscellaneous? Face sprays (for airplanes, not that I've ever noticed that I get that dehydrated when I travel, only dirty), masks and regular exfoliation. Lisa Cant recommends a homemade mask of mashed bananas and whole milk, and that seems worth trying (if I wanted to make it really cosmetic, I'd add honey, oatmeal softened in that milk, wheat germ oil, neroli essential oil, and a tiny bit of white clay).
Speaking of skincare...
1. Bioderma Créaline H20 Solution, for eye makeup removal, and I think it is about time I invested in a makeup remover. I've always been too lazy, and I have sensitive eyes so I've not had much success with the ones I've tried.
2. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, a bona fide staple for half a dozen years
3. Burt's Bees Repair Serum, as a general soothing / regenerative / nourishing / balancing treatment and lightweight moisturizer
4. Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré, as an extra layer of hydration when my skin is dry (the other half of the year), I'm looking for some restorative and simple, and this is extactly that
5. Badger Evolving Balm, as lip balm and general all-purpose emollient
It is obscenely difficult to find Bioderma and Embryolisse in the United States. But that just makes it the more alluring, I suppose. "O, I picked these up at a French pharmacy."
The refinement continues...
If you were me, what blush would you wear with this? I was thinking NARS Sin or Stila Convertible Color in Orchid (or Rose?). In any case, a cool, berrified rose is the way to go, and both, I think would be a good investment because it would take me ages to finish.
Opalis, redux
Eyeshadow addiction has always been a bane for me...
Labels: badger, beauty notes, bioderma, burt's bees, chanel, crealine, dr. hauschka, embryolisse, giorgio armani, models, nars, opalis, parfumerie generale, skin
A quick break to review...
Posted by Dain, Sunday, June 24, 2007 10:34 PM (Eastern)
I have been looking at beauty products suited for travel (of course), so when I saw Burt's Bees Healthy Care Face Kit (for almost twice the priced offered here), I thought, why not? Mini sizes make a perfect travel kit. Plus, there's a trial size of the Night Repair Serum, which I'm curious. The contents of the kits are subject to change, I believe, but mine had: Repair Serum, Pore-Refining Mask, Royal Jelly Eye Creme, Marshmallow Vanishing Creme, Evening Primrose Overnight Creme, and Hand Repair Creme.
Here's what I think of them.
Pore-Refining Mask: I don't usually try masks, primarily because I think they're essentially pointless. This is your standard clay mask, though this one is a little different, because it comes in dry powder form, which you mix with water (or rosewater or green tea or whatever). The whole idea bemuses me. The scent is strong (keep away from eyes) and it makes my skin really taut. I admit, clay masks are not suited for my skin type, but I can see little virtue in this. If you've oily skin with enlarged pores, this might give some temporary relief.
Rosewater & Glycerin Toner: Standard alcohol-based toner, this one has more soothing ingredients like rosewater and glycerin, but still... This is so standard I keep forgetting about it. You'd be much better off getting Thayer's Rose Petal Witch Hazel Toner, it's cheaper and alcohol free.
Royal Jelly Eye Creme: This is a very emollient balm, and I rather like it. Like masks, eye creams are more about fulfilling a perceived need than an actual one. They're nice to have, but your skin doesn't require it. But I do like this one. It's rich and best used at night, because it takes a few hours to absorb completely, but it's gentle and smells nice (very faintly).
Evening Primrose Overnight Creme: I think this is a product best reserved for those with dry skin. It's quite emollient: plant oils and beeswax base, with a few botanical extracts. It should be warmed up in the hand before application, and a little goes a long way. The texture reminds me of Nuxe Reve de Miel Lip Balm, though the Nuxe is much less dense, so I think it would be lovely on the lips, too. It takes a while to absorb (above an hour), but that's ok as it is for nighttime use anyway. It has a lovely floral scent. I've also found that it's nice on the ends of hair, it smoothes and glosses and protects. I rather like this, though I worry that it might clog my pores in the long run. When I woke up this morning, my skin had quite a glow (but that might have been the Repair Serum).
Marshmallow Vanishing Creme: Ick! This smells nasty! Saccharine sweet. It's a more cosmetically elegant formulation than the Evening Primrose, as this absorbs into the skin rather than sitting on top of it, thus being better suited as a day cream. Strangely, it feels... I don't know how to describe it, "filmier" on the skin, like I'm a little dirty, whereas once the Evening Primrose is absorbed, it's completely absorbed, even though it takes a couple hours to do so.
Shea Butter Hand Repair Creme: The smell of this turned me off at first, as it's heavily medicinal—the texture, and the smell, remind me of a marginally classier Noxema. But I've warmed up to it, even though it's really quite odd. Even though it feels tacky at first, it absorbs pretty well, and after two days of use, I can truly see a difference in the quality of the skin on my hands and cuticles, though I admit I don't do much for them normally, so I can't really compare it to other products (if I had my choice, I'd try the L'Occitane Lavender Hand Cream). But it's good stuff, so far as I can tell.
Repair Serum: This is what I got the kit for. I've been curious about this because I've been wondering if this might not be a cheaper alternative for Decleor Aromaessence Rose D'Orient. Now, don't get me wrong, the ingredients are different, but I think the ingredients of the Burt's Bees are better, if anything. Rosehip oil is one of the most restorative natural oils, perfect for dry, sensitive skin, but I've tried the pure stuff and it's too rich and smells funny (slightly fishy). By mixing it with jojoba oil (as well as highly moisturizing evening primrose oil, borage oil, wheat germ oil, and hazelnut oil, to a lesser degree), the formula is much more silky and pleasant to use. It has a handful of vitamins (E,A,C) and botanical extracts (lavender, calendula, rose, green tea). I don't know if it's this oil or the Evening Primrose Overnight Creme that is responsible, but I woke up this morning to healthy, glowing skin, and I'm definitely intending to purchase the Repair Serum. It is not, of course, a serum (which I feel is water-based), but it is a vegetable oil blend with essential oils, and I've been looking for the perfect one to use under more standard moisturizers, as a hydrating and desensitizing treatment, and in fact I think this is far superior to Rose D'Orient. This one has a wonderfully silky texture, a lovely scent (herbal-floral) that isn't too strong, and it's cheap!
Labels: burt's bees
Globe Trotter (part 3)
Posted by Dain, Saturday, June 23, 2007 6:13 AM (Eastern)
FROM CASUAL TO DRESSY
To illustrate the true versatility of the system, I've assembled a few outfits together, from casual to dressy to dressed up.
As you can see, even with so few clothes, the outfits are very different from each other. That's the magic of a well organized suitcase.
SWIM & SUN
For most people, vacation is the beach. Admittedly, not every trip involves it, but it is nevertheless an important enough category to merit some attention. One swimsuit is enough: Zimmerman Summer Love Bikini $175, below.
Don't forget a good sunscreen, like Bioderma Photoderm Max Lait 50+ ($17.32), which has piqued my curiosity because I've heard it beats even Anthelios. Add some Lolita*-esque Sweet Heart Sunglasses ($14) from Urban Outfitters, a Malo Beach Blanket ($377.99) (with a built-in pillow!), and Havaianas ($15), and you're ready to go. NOTA BENE: In Europe, only Americans wear flip flops outside of the beach.
BEAT THE CHILL
Alternatively, you may find yourself in nasty weather, particularly when traveling in temperate zones. The trick, I find, is not to pack more, but to be smart about what you bring. Light layers are ideal (see Part 1). Wear a jacket to the airport, like this sleek but rugged Banana Republic leather bellows pocket jacket ($298), perfect for the roughest, toughest voyage, but almost sweet in creamy nougat-colored leather.
A fine-gauge v-neck sweater, like this sea-green cashmere sweater ($218) from Ballantyne is perfect for layering. It's lightweight, but warm. The v-neck allows the shirt underneath to peek through, but it can, of course, be worn as a sweater. I've also discovered that a soft cashmere sweater like this can be worn instead of pajamas: you've never felt anything so comfy. Wrap around your neck a vibrant scarf, like these brilliantly hued Loro Piana cashmere/silk shawls ($395). I always bring one of these when I travel. They're incredibly versatile, functioning not only as a scarf, a shawl, a pillow, an eye mask, an emergency hat, and blanket as the occasion requires. And finally, I carry a small umbrella. Mine's bright pink with ruffles and a glittery handle, but... : ) To each his own.
PRACTICAL: VERY IMPORTANT THINGS THAT ARE EASILY FORGOTTEN AND QUICKLY REGRETTED
1. travel documents, maps and information, wallet, and keys, of course
2. adequate underwear (and socks, if needed, but you can avoid packing any if you bring the right shoes), it helps if you bring a small fabric laundry bag, which takes up no extra room, so as to separate the clean from the dry
2. toothbrush, a new one in its package so as to avoid contamination, plus floss and toothpaste
3. a small Ziploc with medical necessities: first-world tampons, anti-itch eye drops, sleeping pills, Advil, and allergy medication covers it for me
4. liquid soap that doubles as laundry detergent and body wash, other toiletries (expanded in greater detail in Part 4)
5. razorcomb, deodorant, exfoliating bath mitt (smaller and dries cleaner than your average puff or sponge)
6. ziploc bags, of course, you could spend a lot of money on toiletry cases and whatnot, but what's the point? plastic bags are cheap, clear, and spillproof...
7. portable alarm clock
*You know, that scene when Humbert Humbert sees Lolita for the first time, sunbathing in the garden, she's wearing heart-shaped sunglasses (albeit in red). I speak of the Kubrick interpretation. Great movie.
Labels: anthony logistics, aquis, ballantyne, bioderma, graphic image, loro piana, malo, mason pearson, travel, zimmermann
Globe Trotter (part 2)
Posted by Dain, Friday, June 22, 2007 7:10 AM (Eastern)
To continue with our article on packing light...
PRACTICAL: UNDER AND OVER
Often the tops I like to wear are sheer, thus I find a lace camisole indispensible. Not, however, in this case, as the ones I've chosen can do without.
For unpredictable weather, it is wise to add a sweater or cardigan. I favor this luscious raspberry Jackie Cardigan ($59.50) from J. Crew, which would complement my tops superbly. It looks sleek and soft, the ideal light layer for chilly evenings.
PRACTICAL and AESTHETIC: WELL SHOD
Two pairs of shoes suffice: a comfortable pair of flats and a pair of heels. I like shoes with personality, but not so much that they don't match all the clothes; neutral colors work best here. Additionally, a pair of flip flops might be useful and take up little room, especially if you are going to the beach, but if you've already chosen a pair of sandals as your "flats", the flip flops might be redundant. I know shoes take up a lot of room, but the flats will already be on your feet, and a pair of heels (in its original cloth bag) is actually very useful for dressier occasions, like dinner at a nice restaurant.
I adore both of these, and they're on sale! I've chosen Alexander McQueen Skull Ballet Flats $258, but it quite depends on your taste and destination. For more tropical destinations, a great pair of sandals might be better, while colder climes might demand some svelte boots. But I love these ballet flats, the combination of sweetly chic (the simple ballet shape) and edgy (the skulls) is quite interesting, while still being neutral enough for anything (the shade of grey). As for heels (normally I pack a pair of supremely walkable espadrilles), I wanted these adorable Stella McCartney Velvet Pumps ($273) when they first came out in pewter, but this olive incarnation is even better, not to mention deceptively neutral. I have a strange affinity for green shoes for that very reason.
AESTHETIC: SPARKLY STUFF
Jewelry ought to be avoided when traveling, rather than to run the risk of losing something. Simple jewelry you needn't take off is best. A clean, classic Chaumet Dandy Watch ($7350) and a simple necklace like this pearl strand ($390) work well for me. Elegant, but not fussy.
But it doesn't hurt to pack one major statement piece, like a cocktail ring. I like how the lustrous green depths of this Agate Ring from Stephen Dweck ($330) echoes the hues of the olive pumps above, in a very subtle way.
PRACTICAL: A BIG BAD BAG
No one ever said that one cannot be both practical and stylish. My secret to living with a tiny piece of luggage is to carry an equally large handbag, like the heartstoppingly chic Anya Hindmarch Bogart ($980). Between the two, I have everything I might need. But big bags are not well suited for going out, which is why I pack something smaller, like Michael Kors' Sutton Clutch ($395), with the added virtue of doubling as a makeup bag.
I love Anya Hindmarch in general for her ladylike-but-slightly-quirky stylings, and the glossy patent of this tote is so gorgeous it's almost wicked. The Sutton Clutch is equally timeless and glamorous, with its demure cocoa and black diamond pattern and the shiny gold buckle. It's quite oversize (11" in length), so there's room for all your needs.
Labels: alexander mcqueen, anya hindmarch, chaumet, michael kors, stella mccartney, travel
the great Miles Davis
Posted by Dain, 2:36 AM (Eastern)
Is this not beautiful?
Labels: music
Globe Trotter (part 1)
Posted by Dain, Thursday, June 21, 2007 7:11 AM (Eastern)
I suppose this better belongs in our Fashion Blog, but it combines beauty and fashion concerns, and I'd rather not split it.
There are maybe four different types of trips. One, is the business trip, with which I have no experience whatever. Two, resort vacation, for which the goal is relaxation. Three, city vacation, for which the goal is entertainment. Fourth, camping, which I never would do. Of course, these are very fluid categories: Rio, for example, would be a resort city. By now, I've whittled my goods down to a science, and for a week or two or traveling, I find this is an ideal list (it's also a great wishlist, doesn't really need a theme!).
TO START OFF...
HOW TO PACK?
Some of the clothes are on your back, and some are packed away. In addition, I carry two bags: my carry-on luggage, such as the Avietta, and a roomy handbag for more immediate essentials. The trick is organization, but there are a couple different ways to organize, both aesthetically and practically. I'm not sure how to show "both sides at once", as it were, so I will switch back and forth from the practical and the aesthetic. I think it's easier to follow that way.
PRACTICAL: ON ME
This is what I wear to the airport; I focus on comfort rather than style, and find light layers best suited for the purpose:
1. black bra, the most neutral and effortlessly sexy shade for a bra
2. a comfortable shirt, I sometimes like to wear a combination of a lace camisole (which is very, very useful as a general underlayer) and a soft, comfortable buttondown, but I generally like to wear my psychohenley, because somehow it makes me happy
3. layers are key, if I feel I need the extra warmth, I wear a lightweight silk-cashmere sweater, in a mellow but cheerful blue, and it's soft enough to sleep in, if necessary
4. trousers or jeans, nothing too fancy, you don't want to worry about wrinkles or stains
5. a pair of comfortable flat shoes, the kind will vary depending on your style, your needs, and the climates you will be traversing
6. a scarf/shawl is indispensible, not only does it provide extra warmth, you can ball it up and use it as a pillow in a pinch
7. a coat, 'nuff* said, with the exception of the most tropical places
8. other details: simple jewelry that doesn't require any watching, an umbrella, and of course my handbag
AESTHETIC: THE WARDROBE
Wardrobe function, i.e. how things match with other things while avoiding redundancy, is most essential to clever packing. I find it useful, for example, to bring two "bottoms" when I travel, usually a pants and a skirt for more versatility; I need no more if the trip is less than a week. You can't get away with just one, because if you soil one and have to wash it, you're stuck.
I don't usually wear jeans; I think that navy trousers are equally versatile but infinitely more chic. But I do like Joplin Plazzo by J Brand ($230), they're cut more like trousers: solid in color (the mark of a less casual jean) and wide-legged. I loathe skinny jeans, period, on me, or anyone else for that matter. The fabric baffles me, light and soft and linen-like, but I think that makes them especially pretty, and they're a nice choice for traveling because wrinkles won't matter much. Very different in style, but equally laidback for the summer, is Edme and Esyllte's eggshell cotton skirt ($118). I looked at a lot of white skirts before I chose this one, but this ultimately won out because the fabric drapes so well; very soigné. It's also the most flattering shape, a full a-line, with insets of crocheted lace for a little interest without being too distracting.
I then match tops to bottoms. I find that there are three categories that tops can fall under: "basics" for comfort, such as tees and hoodies, "chic" pieces for daytime dressing up, such as tailored shirts and sleek knits, and "fun" tops, which may be pretty or edgy or sexy as it suits your taste, the clothing that transmits your personality.
The first is my "basic" example, a shirt I already own: my psychohenley from Urban Outfitters (I think it was $28). It's fun, comfortable, and layers well. The one next to it is "chic", Thomas Pink's Tailored Camellia Stripe ($89), for a dose of dressiness, perfect for lunch and a trip to a museum. For "fun" tops, a prime selection will do, such as Sara Berman's Film Noir Blouse ($288), in gray silk, diamond-and-red-leggy-ladies pattern, flutter sleeves, and sharp, velvety black buttons (gee, it's got a lot going on), is quirky and adorable. Next, something airy, like this fresh but sexy James Coviello Sky Stripe Tank ($148). I also like Yumi Kim's Sukie Top ($138), a botanical theme in satiny pearl and cerulean blue. With one of each kind, I have pretty much any eventuality covered. Something comfortable that you don't need to think about, something classic for a little bit of formality, something fun with more personality (I favor sweet and pretty)—though obviously these are not hard and fast categories.
I also like to pack dresses; they are simple to wear and also have a lot of personality. I always add at least one, and I just love this persimmon floral silk dress from Banana Republic ($109), I may just have to get this one. Anything with a high waist, a skirt, flowers, and a bow, o and silk!, is just my thing.
*I wonder why one places an apostrophe in front of "nuff". It's not exactly a real contraction.
Opalis Hair Care?
Posted by Dain, Wednesday, June 20, 2007 12:53 AM (Eastern)
Anyone heard of this? Found it on beautyhabit.com, which harbors obscure luxury brands (always the most fun). It looks ridiculously impressive. I can be awfully jaded about this insignificant thing called cosmetics, but the people who designed the packaging must be even more so, or French. It turns out, it's both. It sometimes really does baffle me how the French have natural but highly inappropriate taste. Maybe we missed out on being colonized by the British, because the British clearly have no taste, so much so that they idolize their one stylish citizen: Kate Moss. But these are handsome, no? They may be plastic jars with labels and lovely scented goo inside, but at least, they are pretty—and they look obscenely expensive (and they most certainly are—if they were cheap, they would look like, well, plastic jars with labels and lovely scented goo inside).
Are these feelings a good guide? Well, no, because you are definitely victim to placebo effect in the highest degree. If you pay that much, you make it as good as you want it to be—unless it does something bad to you, in which case you curse it, because you spent all that goddamn money. The smell, texture, packaging, and copy all come together to provide you a sense of money well spent. For the most part, luxury brands do use better ingredients and concentrated formulae (a little goes a long way), pay more attention to the product.
So why pay more? The truth is, the raw ingredients are often not so nice to use, "cosmetically elegant", as Paula Begoun says. Products need to feel and smell and look good, in order to be good. Efficacy and cost are not the only important factors.
Hence:
June 29, 2007 3:12 PM,
I haven't tried the original Eau d'Hadrien, but I know it's more popular. IMO, Les Nuits is a for nights (obviously), city dwellers, or people who aren't really into citrus. I'm surprised you find it weak, though--do you have the EDT, perhaps? The EDP is very strong for a citrus (which is why I liked it), though I gave it as a gift as I never wear citrus perfumes.
I've never really liked a rose, either, at least, not enough to buy one. Just enough to spritz at the store and wear it around.
June 29, 2007 9:44 PM,
It's definitely the EDT. But then I tried the EDT of Eau d'Hadrien and on me, or to me, (or both), it smelled much much stronger.
I can't smell certain perfumes on myself. I tried Chanel Allure, and even though other people describe it as heady, potent, et cetera, I could hardly smell a thing (whereas Coco Mademoiselle smelled wonderfully potent on me).
So it could just be one of those things. I fairly drenched myself in it this morning. But I can't really smell it.
June 30, 2007 2:38 PM,
You know something, I'll bet that's it. I tried Les Nuits... before, in a shop, and it wasn't weak.
hmmm...