Day 1532

Well I must say, I was somewhat disappointed by the women's fashion this year at the Golden Globes. I thought many were just boring and predictable, and most hair was just not right. There were some obvious risk-takers (January Jones and obvi Helena Bonham Carter), but for the most part, the dresses were very conservative. Regardless of the overall snoozefest, there were a few ladies who I thought looked Ah-mazing.

My favorite of the night:
Eva Longoria in Zac Posen



Wow, now that's the way to bounce back from a philandering husband. Even though the dress is still somewhat conservative, she looked smoking hot.

Close runner-up:
Anne Hathaway in Armani Prive



I'm intrigued by the nod-to-Dynasty gown, and thought she looked fantastic in it. The color was fantastic on her, and her hair and accessories were perfection.

Other great looks of the night:
Kyra Sedgwick in Pucci



Mila Kunis in Vera Wang



Emma Stone in Calvin Klein



Dianna Agron in J. Mendel

Day 1507

Day 10: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

Yes, I know, beyond cheesy! But whatever, I'm flying home tomorrow night and am so incredibly ready to be go...that and my work-induced delirium has finally taken it's toll on me. Anyway, you can ask my aunt...pretty much every time we go shopping, I am looking at the watches, and I think that the best mid-level priced watchmaker is Michael Kors. Two years ago, I almost bought the oversized gold watch (but went with a cheap version instead), and then last year, the white one almost came home with me. But I'm glad I didn't purchase that one, because I am now IN LOVE with this black and gold number. I have a feeling I will be buying this for myself very early in 2011! LOVE it!

Day 1506

Day 9: The Statement of all Statement Necklaces

I have been OBSESSED with this necklace for well over two years now, but at a hefty price tag of $395, I have a feeling I will be swooning over it for many years to come. However, if you feel the need to really knock-the-socks off of your lady friend, this amazing piece is just the thing to put you on her good list for a long, long time.

Roarke NYC Le Charlot Necklace


Simply perfection. And done.

Day 1498

It's 12 Days before Christmas, and I thought it would be fun to feature the 12 wish list gifts any girl would love...me included!

Day 1: Marc Jacobs Crossbody Handbags

These bags are really the perfect gift for an big city girl! With all the walking that we do, Crossbody bags are the perfect handbag...they are more comfortable and accessible than a shoulder bag, and are the perfect size (not too big, not too small) to transition into the best going out bags for night. Oh, and did I mention the feel of his leather bags? Like buhtah!

There are a few that I absolutely adore, but any would be fabulous gifts!

'Classic Q - Natasha' Crossbody Flap Bag



I have been searching for a great black purse for years now, and this black leather bag is gorgeous! The gold zipper and hardware is a spot-on trend this season.

'Totally Turnlock - Percy' Crossbody Bag



Although this red number is a bit smaller than I'd prefer, the tomato red color is just adorable...and perfect for any Razorback game day. I'm thinking New Orleans, Sugar Bowl...perfect accessory.

'Classic Q - Little Ukita' Convertible Crossbody Bag



This bag is my absolute favorite, but it is sold out everywhere in all my favorite colors. Ideally I would want this in first black, then red and third camel, but if I had to chose from what is out there, the midnight blue color is gorgeous! Hands down, the Classic Q Little Ukita is the perfect crossbody bag!

Happy Hunting!

Day 1430

These crisp temperatures have me seriously jonesing for a some cozy and comfy new digs. Sadly, my wallet doesn't seem to want to cooperate. Unfortunately for me, I'm only going to be able to pick one or two of these new items. Good think I already know what is at the top of my list!

Tory Burch Leopard Reva Flats



Love, love, love these! I already have them in black and in gold, and literally wear them five days a week. Actually, I have worn my black ones so much that they now have a hole in the toe.

Come to Momma!

Day 1385

Hello friends! Today I wanted to share with you a new venture my mom and sister Marissa have started...a jewelry design shop called Me, You and Roo (Roo, of course, is their precious baby girl of a pup who is always keeping an eye on their hardwork!). They can design both beading and some metal work for necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Their shop is on etsy, and you can also contact them to create specific pieces for yourself. Mom likes to work with semi-precious stones, and Marissa is particularly good with making chain necklaces, pendants and earrings.

This all started back when my sister Lindann got married, and Marissa made all of our jewelry for the bridal party to wear...and I must say, they are extremely talented! I recently was back home and tried to sneak about 15 necklaces out of the house, and although I was caught redhanded, I did get some custom pieces made for me!

Anyway, check them out on etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/meyouandroo

I think you'll find that they are more than affordable and fun, stylish pieces. Enjoy!

Day 1364

I know, I know...I have no excuses. Except that I broke my camera, and I have been out of town a lot, and I have been super busy at work...forgive me yet? Anyway, it's a new month, so I'm attempting to once again kick-start my writing. And this morning, I received the most beautiful source of inspiration in my inbox...what better way to kick-off my month that by sharing this gorgeous gown?



Um, wow. Seriously, I die. I mean, it'd only set me back a mere $7,405...but that's just pocket change, right? Ladies and gentleman, I think I've found my new obsession for the fall. Anyone up for spoiling me a bit? Hmm, about 5 months of mortgage payments, or a drop dead amazing gown that I would have no where to show it off but my tiny condo? Decisions, decisions. Hey, a girl can dream, right?

Happy August!

Day 1208

Day 27 of Wonderful: Loving Thy Skin



You all should know by now my feelings about a woman taking some time for herself, and the same can be said for a woman feeling confident in her appearance. When it comes to makeup, I feel like your teens and 20s are the time to experiment and play, but by my age, you should feel comfortable in your routine and how you dress your face.

For me, I like to keep it classic and natural for work wear, put on as little as possible when out and about on the weekends, but add a bit of drama for nights out on the town. By now I've got my technique down, but it's still fun to play a bit and get tips from the experts. So you can imagine my excitement today when I went to Neiman's to get new face cream and Bobbi Brown's NYC makeup team was there for Beauty Days.

I must admit, there isn't a whole lot that I am high maintenance about, but my skin routine is definitely one of them. Sadly, I've been cursed with bad skin pretty much my whole life, and now that I've hit the 30 mile marker, am insistent on my routine and doing all I can to keep my skin healthy. That means drinking my allotment of water and green tea each day, cleansing, medicating, sunscreening, moisturizing and treating it with a delicate touch. And I do feel that the routine I've stuck to for the past few years has paid off, because it looks better now than it ever has before.

Anyway, as I said, I went in for moisturizer and came out with a whole new look. It wasn't for me, I wear golds and other warm colors much better, but had her try some fun silver, greys and blues on my just for fun. And I'm glad I did, because now I feel reaffirmed that I know my skin and myself well enough to know what works for me and what doesn't. It's funny, I sat down in the makeup artists chair for a fun day of experimentation, but left with a renewed sense of self. I know myself, what works for me and what is best left for others, and I feel pretty good about that.

Now that being said, I'm off to get ready for a Jersey Shore costume party. And no, of course I did not hit the tanning bed beforehand...I'm trying to prevent wrinkles thank you very much. But I am going to have to let my skin take a bit of a beating, just for tonight and pound on two tons of makeup. Don't you worry though, I've already got an arsenal of moisturizer underneath, and will be detoxing my face as soon as I wake up tomorrow.

The price we pay for beauty...

Day 1196

Day 15 of Wonderful: Motivation



Everyone needs a little motivation to push them further toward their goals. Today, I seem to need a whole lot of it to keep me on my right path. Despite my pampering last night, it's just not my day. I'm achy, my energy is zapped and I am just having a hard time keeping my head clear, focused and positive.

On days like this, I typically take to comfort food and sleep to make me feel better. Thing is, it never really helps all that much. I know this, but it is just so, so easy to fall back into bad patterns when tired and not feeling right.

What I needed was a big boost of motivation.

When I started my wellness competition with my friend Beth, I hung my absolutely favorite dress ever outside my closet door in my bedroom. It may look like a plain, black lace dress from the picture, but let me tell you something...it is absolutely freaking fantastic. And when I finally get into the shape I need to wear it again (and that means without the help of Spanx), there will be no denying that. I will be something to talk about.

Sexy, confident, smoking hot...this dress has it all. And seeing it each day, visualizing it on me once again...well...this is why this dress is my biggest motivation.

Today I am halfway through my 28 Day Project, and even for this, today I needed some serious motivation to find something positive to write about. But I looked at the dress and it reminded me of how far I've come, in so many ways, and how much further I have to go. Motivation can change your frame of mind. It is a very wonderful thing.

This 28 Day Project has been motivation of another kind, and I am so glad I began it. It has forced me to find the positive in each day, and usually, once I find one positive, the whole rest of the day seems to take a turn for the brighter. It's so easy in the hustle and bustle of everyday life to worry and grumble too much throughout the day. I think it is in our human nature to interact with people that way...complain about the weather, the traffic, your coworkers, your troubles. Be too chipper and people start to wonder just what's wrong with you. But chipper is exactly what I need more of, and searching for the positive is rewiring my way of thinking.

Motivation of another kind. Motivation for a greater peace of mind. With that, everything else seems to fall into place. Seems my motivation is more of a blessing in disguise.

What's your motivation or way to get through the tough days? Any suggestions would be warmly received!

Day 1192

Day 11 of Wonderful: Lauren Merkin Clutch



There are some days when a woman just needs a tiny bit of retail therapy. For me, today is definitely one of those days. After four days of being a single mother snowed-in with four kids, I welcomed my day back into work today. Work, however, did not seem to welcome me back quite as eagerly.

When I got home late tonight, I wracked my brain to find my "Wonderful" for the day, but my mind was blank. That is, until this beautiful creation fell into my inbox...a coveted Lauren Merkin clutch, on sale almost 80% off at Neimans. Sequins and the nude color I'm craving for the Spring that won't seem to come? Yes please, I'll take it.

And you know what? I feel better already. Thank you Lauren Merkin, for making such beautiful arm candy. You literally have made my not-so-much snow day a bit brighter.

Day 1189

Day 8 of Wonderful: New Lingerie



Today I was out with my aunt taking a driving lesson in the snow, and we accidentally took a detour to the mall to pick up a few essentials. Once there, we then accidentally took a detour to the lingerie department to see what we could find. Both of us came out successful.

It doesn't matter if no one even sees it but you...there's honestly nothing better than a new piece of lingerie to make a woman feel amazing. Except maybe when someone does see you in it and reminds you of just how amazing you are.

I'm a strong believer that what is underneath is just as important as your outerwear. Because when you feel sexy, strong and confident with what you're in, the whole world sees it. And then you not only feel it, you become that sexy, strong and confident woman. That's at least my excuse for new lingerie. Well, that and being reminded how amazing I am.

Day 1186

Day 5 of Wonderful: Hunter Boots



If you all had any idea how long and hard I searched for these babies, you would understand my deep, unwavering love for these Wonderboots. They're pretty much sold out in my size everywhere they're sold in the whole country, except in hunter green (a color which I really, really did not want to buy). But by some divine intervention, after the third time I checked zappos.com, there they were, one of two left in my size in black. Lord Almighty, thank you!

Why are these boots so wonderful? Because they are the ultimate in rain boots, but the extra fleece lining makes them all-weather beauties. They are stylish, yet versatile, and wearable from Fall thru Winter to Spring...making them a must have essential in any woman's wardrobe. And hey, if I'm buying Wellies from anyone, it's going to be the British...some things they just know how to make.

But the best part...they arrived today, just before the snow started falling. Perfect timing. How wonderful are my new boots?

Day 1167

I don't really care about who wins what at the Golden Globes tonight. I mean, there are my favorites for sure, but I honestly haven't really seen many movies or watched a lot of television this year to be too invested.

So why am I watching? The fashion, duh! The stars are dodging raindrops on the red carpet tonight, but that didn't stop them from dressing to the nines. There were so many amazing looks of the evening, but I picked a few favorites below.

And I should mention, many of the actors and actresses at the Golden Globes will be donating this evening's attire to Artists for Peace and Justice for an online auction beginning next week on eBay, where 100% of the profits will benefit the Haitian relief.

And now, my best dressed favorites are (drum roll please)...

Olivia Wilde in Gucci



Um, wow, AMAZING! She is just stunning, really. I need that dress immediately and the body to go in it.

Sofia Vergara in Carolina Herrera



I mean, she is absolutely gorgeous to begin with, but this dress just worked for her tonight. It hugs her curves exactly as it should. Love it and love Modern Family!

Marion Coutilliard in Christian Dior



Gorgeous. So French, so fabulous. Always stunning.

Courtney Cox in Victoria Beckham



I need to look that good in my 40s...what am I kidding, I need to look that good now at 30. She is definitely the Cougar I aim to be!

Jennifer Aniston in Valentino Couture



Jennifer Aniston always looks amazing. She's the classic, All-American girl and never disappoints. But tonight, she really wowed in this dress!

**I had to come back and amend this list to add some more amazing looks...there were just too many to name, but here are a few more.

Jane Krakowski in J. Mendel



I couldn't find this photo last night, but this is one of my favorite dresses of the night! I love purple, and this color looks amazing on her. The one shoulder was a big trend of the night, as was this color, but this was my favorite of them all.

Drew Barrymore in Atelier Versace



At first look, I was a bit unsure of this dress, but the more I looked at this, the more I fell in love with it. The dress is a bit daring, but that's what I love about her. Drew looks amazing...her hair, her skin, and this color looks fantastic with her coloring. Drew, welcome to my list.

Penelope Cruz in Giorgio Armani Privé



I had to add her, because although it wasn't my favorite dress of the night (but still very, very pretty), Penelope wins my award for the woman I always want to look like. Perfection, always, and once again, she showed the world what a Hollywood star really is. Amazingly beautiful.

And of course, we can't forget the dashing men. Gentlemen, this is how you wear a tux...

Gerard Butler in Dolce & Gabbana

Day 1156

I've been thinking even more about these New Year's Resolutions I've come up with, and decided, although they are great goals to set, they are a bit broad. I feel like I need something measurable in order to fulfill these goals, hence the following addendums:

1. Take control of my finances.

Since I put a strong emphasis on my shopping habits, I figure what better way to reverse this than to resell some of my mistake purchases. I know, I'm a genius. Patting myself on the back as you read. Well, just so happens, one of my blog favorites, Capitol Hill Style, has an online resale shop, Capitol Hill Style Resale Salon.

There is always really cute stuff for sale on there, and I already have an eye on one or two slightly worn items that I can contribute. For starters, I'm thinking these Kate Spade Giselle shoes.



They are really cute, and only worn twice, but I have another pair of black patent leather peep toes I like better, so I wouldn't cry if someone took them off my hands.

So that is project one...clean out my closets, find items to sell and also items to donate to charity. I think a clean closet and fresh start will help me keep focus on what I don't need to spend money on. And if I'm lucky, I'll make some cash back too.

2. Getting healthy...mind, body and soul.

Motivation and follow through is always my problem. Always. So what better way to combat this than with a little friendly competition, right?



My friend Beth and I are both bridesmaids in another friend's wedding in August, and so to motivate us to get in amazing bridesmaid dress shape, we're competing to see who loses the biggest percentage of weight in the next 8 months.

Each week, we are tracking our weight loss, and then each month are tracking our percentage for the month. The loser for the month treats the winner to a pedicure. Once again, I know, genius. Actually the brilliant mastermind behind this plan was Beth, but I'm very excited about it 1) because I'm uber-competitive and 2) because I think this will be the motivation I need to keep going for 8-months. Bring it Beth, it's on like Donkey Kong.

3. Getting back to my roots.

Okay, I'll admit, this one I'm still working ideas, but I have a few improvements I'm trying to make already, including:

**Adding more photographs to my blog. This counts for creativity, right? I just know that blog posts with photographs are much more bright and interesting (even if I have to pull it off the internet). And to help with this, I bought this little number when I went to Disney World...the world's tiniest camera!

Canon Digital ELPH PowerShot Camera



Okay well maybe not, but it is pretty teeny tiny, and takes great pictures, so I no longer have an excuse for not toting around my enormous camera. It even fit in my itty bitty clutch I took out on New Year's Eve. Highly recommend it.

**Taking at least one yoga class a week. I suppose this also could be added to goal #2, but I'm putting this here because it's both spiritual and incorporates challenging body movements which I've always loved to do (don't read too into that one filthy minds. Or do. Whatever). Since a monthly membership is out of my budget, I figure one class a week will have to do for now.

So that's it for tangible goals as of now, but I hope to continue adding to these as the year goes on. I feel that putting them out there will really inspire me to stick with them. Fingers crossed this works!

Day 839

In anticipation for the Oscars tonight, and the fact that it is a cold and rainy day in Washington, I decided I needed to do a bit of online cocktail dress/evening gown browsing. In the next few months, I have a black tie fundraiser and three weddings to attend, so I need to start keeping my eye on a few new options.

Problem is, I tend to gravitate toward a certain trend. See a connection?















Hmm, like black much? Funny thing is, I started looking back at dresses from college formals, weddings and parties that weren't on my computer, and they were almost all black too. Maybe I should have taken it to heart when an old roommate jokingly labeled me the "Mistress of Darkness". Or I should have taken note when my uber-stylish cousin Valeri came down the stairs as a 6-year-old in black skinny jeans, a black turtleneck sweater and black flats and said, "Look mom, I look like Shawna." I've started to add a bit of color in my wardrobe, but clearly, I need to step it up a bit.

So, in the spirit of color, here are some yummy choices which, if I had the budget (and the body), I would buy up in a heartbeat.

This mulberry colored Badgley Mischka gown is perfection! Absolutely gorgeous!



Or how about this amazingly sexy David Meister. His dresses always make a girl look good, but this cranberry one shoulder sheath is a showstopper.



This one shoulder, petal pink Lela Rose dress is fun, flirty and perfect for batting your lashes and being a girly girl.



I LOVE this grecian bustier Alexander McQueen! Very elegant with a hint of punk that he does so well.



And the green strapless, sweetheart neckline maxi from Tibi...amazing!



Robert Rodriguez is one of my favorites, and I love this super fun and bright pink and black cocktail dress.



Hello sexypot...this Mandalay lace-overlay stone dress is HOT!



I just love Rachel Roy's designs too, and although she is way out of my budget, a girl can dream about this gorgeous dress, right?



And of course, what's a dress list dedicated to color without a DVF? I love the way her clothes fit a woman's body, and this bold orange would look fabulous dress up with gold accesories, or dressed down with gladiator flats. Fingers crossed it'll go on sale soon!



All amazing, but I think that if in my Oscar dream I could wear one designer this year, it would be a Marchesa gown. I think each and every one of their dresses are absolutely amazing. They are etheral and flirty and regal, and what an amazing feeling it must be to don one for an evening. Breathtakingly gorgeous!







Hooray! One hour until the red carpet begins! Much to discuss tomorrow...enjoy the Oscars everyone!

Day 708

I'm having a bit of a moral dilemma. Do I do my patriotic (not to mention career motivated) duty and watch tomorrow night's third and final Presidential Debate? Or do I spoil my side of all-things style and watch the finale of Bravo's Project Runway? Chances are, I could script the debate, but there's no telling who's going to win PR tomorrow night.

Will Nina like the collections? Will Tim Gunn cry? Will Michael Kors stray from his uniform? Will Heidi and Kenly finally throw down? The anticipation is almost more than I can take. And who will be the winner? The vintage villain Kenley? The architect Leanne? Or my hometown girl Korto?

Ugh, if only my TiVo worked, I could record one and skip over to someone else's house to watch the other. Although, all Bravo watchers know that it will be repeated continuously for the next month. The debate? God, I hope not.

Hmm...choices, choices. Decision 2008 is on.

Day 703

Today I am posting from work, rebel that I am. Shhh, this is a secret between you and me. The reason I am is because a) I'm totally procrastinating on preparing for my interview AND working on my dissertation and b) I just found a fun game to play. This involves downloading a picture of yourself and then uploading images of different hairstyles. Unfortunatly I didn't save them to a specific file, so they're lost somewhere on my computer for the government to find and admonish me for.

So then I decided to hack up some pictures via Photoshop, but sad to say in the 6 years since I've used Photoshop in college, I've lost all knowledge of the program, so that didn't work either.

Regardless, since I did all this work for nothing, I'm going to need you all to vote on the celebrity hair you would most want to see me in. Sad to say the Sarah Palin and Cindy McCain versions got cut from the options, but I never looked good as a Republican anyway. Just a little to hippie glam for that.

So here are your choices...I'm going to need everyone to vote on style and color because I need to see my favorite hairdresser/aunt's BFF Carey soon!

Oh yeah, so this is me (a few years ago, but it's all I have on my work computer). Now close your eyes hard and imagine...



1. Cindy Crawford. I always seem to bring in pictures of her--so amazingly beautiful.



2. Alessandra Ambrosio. Not sure I want that blonde, but I love the style.



3. Eva Mendes. Isn't she gorgeous? Again, the first shot is too blonde, but I love her side swept bangs.





4. Salma Hayek. Again, gorgeous, and I really like her dark color.



5. Amy Winehouse. Just kidding, but this may in fact be my Halloween costume this year.



What do you all think? Votes and other suggestions are greatly appreciated.