Monday, February 28, 2011

Flavor of the Week - February 28, 2011

Wedge Central!


These shoes are sooooooooooo BAD (in a good way)!!!  :)  Love the stacked heel by designer Lela Rose who is also working with Payless.  This wedged heel is called "Loreto" which was inspired by the hillside landscape of Peru.  ULTRA FAB!!!

Ladies, wedges are going to be the it shoe for the Spring!  They're definitely a chic shoe style...so ensure that you have a pair in your closet if you don't already!!!

Fashionably yours - Shellena

Friday, February 25, 2011

Ojon Hair Products

What else do you consider to be a great and natural fashion accessory?  Ever thought about your hair as being such?  Well, in order to complete your total style, look beyond your garments & shoes and ensure that your hair is also on point!

For all of my natural haircare advocates or relaxer hair users, you must try the Ojon hair products if you haven't already done so.  I'm so in love with their products!

My hair gets so dry when it's in its natural state.  I constantly have to try to keep it moisturized daily, but I still haven't found a product that keeps it moisturized for hours until I tried a FREE sample packet of the Ojon Restorative Hair Treatment that was included in my Sephora purchase. I was amazed at the amount of moisture that my hair received.  It had increased in softness and in shine.  Please check out the post:  Belts...the Polish to Any Outfit to see what the product did to my hair.

The Ojon Restorative Hair treatment hydrates damaged or dry hair and is ultra healthy for your hair.  You can apply a quarter sized amount to your hair and let it sit for 20 minutes.  Afterwards, shampoo and style.  You will be amazed to see how healthy your hair begins to look after it drys.  The product can also be used as a deep conditioning agent or can be applied as a leave in conditioner.

It contains the highest concentration of Ojon oil which serves as a highly-concentrated hair and scalp treatment.  This oil was used by the Tawira Indians of Central America for over 500 years. Apparently, they were known to have beautiful hair due to use of this rare oil.

Ojon carries many other hair products.  You must try these products out and let us know what you think about them! Their products are made for all hair types regardless of your nationality.  They even have a volumizing line for women or men who have thinner hair. 


So go out and try Ojon today!  :)

Fashionably yours - Shellena



Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Conceal Appeal!!!


Whether you use a stick, tube or pot, concealer can be a girl's bestfriend!! :) Concealer is used when you need a little more coverage on your face and foundation, press powder or mineral powder alone just isn't doing the job. It can assist in covering pimples, dark circles, scars, redness and even bags under the eyes. Concealer can be a lifesaver, disguising flaws to give you a polished and even toned look. Concealer is one of my favorite items in my makeup bag!! So for those who aren't to familiar with concealer, here's a few simple tips :)

Ideally, you want a concealer that’s very close, but slightly lighter than your natural skin tone. That’s the point of a concealer; you want to blend your natural skin tone into areas where you have blemishes. So the best concealer color is generally one or two shades lighter than your skin tone. That way you can blend out darker spots in your skin. Most people have yellow undertones in their skin. So generally a yellow toned concealer will work with your skin tones. Yellow-based colors are the best for almost everyone, because they counteract both redness and blueness. If you want to forgo foundation and wear only concealer you must shop around for one that matches your skin color as well as possible.

In general, dryer concealers adhere to skin better than creamy ones which can be more sheer. Stick concealers are the driest. They can resemble a pencil or a tube of lipstick. The "compact" variety can be either dry or creamy. The "pot" variety comes in a pot, tube or wand and is almost always creamy and therefore more sheer. For covering a pimple, you will probably want a dry stick one so the opaque color will adhere longer. To cover under-eye circles, most celebrity makeup artists want the consistency of a creamier one.

Apply with sponges, brushes, or fingertips, in a thin layer and then add more thin layers if necessary. Always set it with powder. This will make it last longer. It is sometimes better to apply concealer with a brush, because a finger will generate too much body heat and may cause it to melt a bit. For the most flawless, undetectable application, blend the edges of it into the skin with an eye-shadow brush.

Mint Message:
You can use concealer under your eye, but also above your eye. Dot it under your eyebrow and smooth over. This will immediately bring out your brow bone. For oily skin, a dryer formula of concealer works best. Use a light layer to give a matte finish to your cheeks and forehead. Use concealer before you put on lipstick. Priming your lips in this way gives you a very even tone to put the lipstick over. But it also lends depth to your lipstick, and gives you a rich matte shine.

Fashionably yours - Chandra

Wearing MAC NW45 cream concealer


Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Belts...the Polish to Any Outfit!


Blouse: Spense; Pencil Skirt: H&M; Patent
Leather Belt: Dress Barn; Tights: HUE;
Shoes: Aldo
Be effortless while looking totally stylish with the right belt!
Regardless of the size of a belt, whether it’s basic or funky, a belt is the sure way to make your outfit come together!  They are one of the few accessories that can take your outfit to another level, allowing you to go from average to rightfully fabulous in a matter of seconds!!! 
Do you know how to choose the right belt for your body type and style?  Belts can create a feminine shape for you and can be placed on your torso, below your bustline, at your natural waist, or even can be slung low around your hips. 
Mint Message:
A wide belt can help to cinch your natural waist while still creating a feminine or slimming appeal, thus heightening curves.  Ensure that you look for a sturdy or stretchy material like leathers, satins, or elastic bands since these textiles will help in keeping you comfortable throughout your day while you are sitting or bending.  If you want to be daring, try unconventional materials.  Mix it up by swapping buckles for bows, hooks or even snaps.  Also, swap the usual leather material for elastics, cummerbunds, obi sashes, or even ribbons.
Skinny belts compliment very feminine dresses or separates, including shorts.  Since these belts are so slim, you should brighten up your outfit with a little color or shine without overtaking your total look.
Belts worn at the waist with a high waisted skirt, simple dress or pant.  You can even merge together a shirt or blouse with a skirt, pant or jeans by adding a wide belt to polish your look.  Increase your curve appeal by adding a belt to a sheath dress with a patent leather or decorative belt.  Also, wear a belt with a tailored jacket or blazer and structured shirt with the belt at your waist.
Belts that hit right at the hips create a more relaxed and casual style.  Hip hugging belts are great for tunics, casual dresses, low-rise jeans, shorts and bohemian skirts.
I bought the belt below from a Thrift Store in Jacksonville, FL three years ago for $1.99.  It's a Lee Sands rare genuine peacock feather adjustable belt with a beautiful broached buckle.  Very decorative!  After doing some research, this belt typically retails at $99 USD, so I got a steal of a deal for this vintage piece!  I am wearing the belt with a blouse and high waisted pant.


Go out and get "Belt-licious"!  :)

Fashionably yours - Shellena






Monday, February 21, 2011

Timeless in Penny Loafers

I’m a girl who loves classic style and SHOES, so even though penny loafers seemed so 1970s ago, they will always be a timeless shoe in the fashion world.  Penny loafers can be worn by any age group.  The key to wearing the right penny loafers is to keep your look sleek and simple while stile creating a modern edge. 
Mint Message:
As a substitute for flats, try penny loafers since they are rarely worn by the everyday woman.  Plus, penny loafers can help you to stand out as a classy chica and sets you up to be among the classic trendsetters!
When choosing penny loafers it is very important to know how you will wear them.  If you do not adore classic penny loafers, consider shoes that are penny loafer inspired.  For instance, kitten heels or a low pump can be as swanky as traditional penny loafers. 
Leather penny loafers are the best choice since synthetic ones can look very cheap and tatter quickly.  Remember, whether you are going for a classic or modern pair, penny loafers can make you look timeless!  Go out and invest in a good pair of leather penny loafers today so that you can get generous wear out of the shoe by wearing them to work or out and about on the weekend.
At work, wear a feminine blouse and slim pants with your penny loafers.  Any pant with a slim leg that fits at the ankle will show off your loafers.  If you are in an innovative work environment, play up your loafers with bright colored hose, socks, or tights.  Penny loafers can also be worn with a blouse and pencil skirt.
If you own a pair of modern penny loafers that have a heel, try wearing a pair of wide leg trousers or a sheath dress with tights and a tailored blazer.  This will make your daywear look even more appealing at the office!
Let’s say that you want to go and hang out with your girls after work to have a cocktail or you’re having a dinner date with your hubby or boyfriend, wear a shirt dress in fabric that has some sheen, you may also even wear something that is made out of cotton.  Ensure that the garment has a belted waist or wear a belt to create a feminine or hour glass shape.  Your loafers will really pop once you create this look!  For a weekend day look to meet up for brunch or have a casual evening out and about, you can wear menswear inspired garments.  For instance, try wearing a long sleeved blouse with a vest and skinny pants or jeans.
Dark denim jeans create a classic edge and look really great with penny loafers.  Wear a skinny or straight legged pair of jeans that hit right at the ankle or just slightly below it.  Top your jeans off with a tailored cotton shirt or frilly blouse to create an effortless look.
Fashionably yours - Shellena














Sunday, February 20, 2011

Flavor of the Week - February 20, 2011

Dennis Basso Spring 2011 Collection

I was gathering some pictures for what I thought was going to be my Flavor of the Week on one of my favorite girl's Halle Berry. Well as I was cruising the net, I saw the dress above and quickly changed my mind (no offense Halle, lol)!! Dennis Basso Spring/Fall 2011 collection, which previewed at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in NYC last week, was absolutely stunning!! And though I'm a woman who adores bold, bright colors, I couldn't help but fall for this neutral palette, luxurious and amazingly tailored collection!

Basso's Spring/Fall 2011 collection was inspired by summer evenings on the Mediterranean. Some of the reviewers top look of the evening were: Black-and-white metallic net gown; pink hand-embroidered skirt; silk chiffon tank and pink mink jacket; and a blue ombré metallic dress. Basso accessorized his garments with Alligator clutches; python messenger bags; fur boleros and vests. Backstage, Dennis Basso expounded on this season's woman. "She loves to go out," he said. "She travels. She does special occasion. No pants."

I posted some looks from the collection that I really enjoyed!! Check them out and let us know your thoughts..... Thanks for the inspiration Mr. Basso!

Fashionably yours - Chandra

Spring 2011


Spring 2011


Spring 2011


Spring 2011


Spring 2011

Fall 2011


Fall 2011

Fall 2011


Fall 2011


Fall 2011




Thursday, February 17, 2011

Alvin Ailey Tradition Meets Fashion

Dress:  Taylor; Jacket:  Piko 1988;
Purse: BCBG; Shoes:  Ellen Tracy; 
Hose:  Hanes
 My hubby and I have an annual tradition of attending the Alvin Ailey dance performance in February here in Atlanta, GA at the Fox Theatre.  I started this tradition when I first moved here 7 years ago and then got Craig hooked once we started dating.  I am so happy that he is as "cultured" as I am!  I never have to drag him to go with me.  :) 

Attending the Alvin Ailey performance is a great date night for us, which allows for us to get dressed all snazzy for an awesome night out in the city.  Plus, the Fox Theatre has such a retro vibe which makes me want to get dressed up even more!  :)  We just attended the most recent show on Sunday, 2/13 and it was awesome!!  We had sushi at BlueFin right after.

The hard work and dedication that the Alvin Ailey staff puts forth to ensure that the audience has a great time helps us to get our money's worth, plus more.  The backdrop on the stage is always vibrant and the dancers costumes always pop to fit the proper dance routine.  To me...that evokes fashion!!!

These dancers can really dance!!!  You will see everything from ballet, modern, hip hop, African dance, to everything else that your mind can imagine!!!  I wish that I could dance like most of them. :) Last year, the Alvin Ailey dance team did a tribute to Ottis Redding, which was phenomenal!!!  For any of you that have not attended one of their performances, please check out your local listings for a performance near your city:  http://www.alvinailey.org/

Ok, so you probably are wondering what did I wear?  Well, this year I decided to opt for a little brown dress instead of a typical black dress.  I paired it with a shagged 3/4 sleeve jacket to add a retro vibe.  I got this jacket from a boutique in Jacksonville, FL when I went to go visit my family in January 2011.  I am wearing Hanes Sheer Elegance hose in the Barely There color with Ellen Tracy two and a half inch snakeskin shoes (sisssssss....) LOL!  To top the look off, I had a brown and creme clutch to add even more of a vintage appeal.  Oh yeah, I got my hair straightened (not with chemicals) and layered too. 

You like?  :)

Mint Message:

Opt for a different sheath dress color other than black.  Play around with a furry jacket to glam up your look even more and feel free to go bare legged with a nice pair of heels!  Clutches can fem up any outfit.  So go find an excuse to get glammed up!  :)

Fashionably yours - Shellena




Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Rock the Bells!!!

Katie Holmes in flare jeans


So who would have thought that this fashion trend which made waves in the late 60’s and most of the 70’s, then reappeared in the 90’s, could make another comeback in 2011! Well they're back…..LOL! Bell Bottoms are back to party and they're bringing the funk! The flare leg jeans are being sold in stores like Gap, Urban Outfitters, 7 for all Mankind and many more!

I know, I have to reprogram my brain too! For the last couple of years boot cut, skinnies and now jeggings have ruled the world! But bell bottoms or flares are just as fun, adding a vintage, urban chic twist. Derek Lam’s Spring 2011 runway showcases several looks with a flare leg. And what’s so great about bell bottoms is you can dress them up or down depending on the shoes, top or accessories! Bell bottoms come in an array of colors and fabrics and go perfect with a pair of cute wedges or pumps!  Flare fits are sexy from hip to knee with an amazing bell leg from the knee down.

Mint Message:
Try a spring Bohemian look by rocking a floral, animal or tribal print top with cute bell bottom/flare jeans. This specific style of clothing has some characteristic features that manifest an attitude of freedom in it. The essence of Bohemian clothing focuses on bringing out the uniqueness of a person. Add layered bracelets or necklaces to give your look some extra spice! Large abstract earrings will also enhance your look! :) Rock on....

Fashionably yours - Chandra







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