Finally! Foundations For 40+ Skin That Really Work!

By Colette Bouchez

If you’re anything like me, finding a foundation that doesn’t go into fine lines (or deep lines) has been  like looking for the holy grail or the Maltese Falcon: It’s just not going to happen. 

In fact, I’ve found that regardless of  who’s doing the promoting or what’s in the ads, most foundations touted as “anti-aging”  - including mineral make-ups -  have been a huge disappointment, failing to deliver on one of their key promises: To make our skin look younger. Or, at the very  least,  not make us look  any older than we are!   

But that’s about to change, with two  exceptional  foundations – one brand new – that I am  excited to tell you not only deliver on their anti-aging promise,  my personal experience shows they will far exceed your foundation expectations no matter your age!

So what are they?   Read on!

Amazing Anti Aging Foundation # 1:  Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Smooth Liquid Make-up with SPF 15.

What It Does:  Takes foundation to a whole new level by creating a flawless, dewy (not greasy) formulation that brightens the skin, covers imperfections and – most important from an anti-aging standpoint -  softens the appearance of lines and wrinkles both immediately and over time.

Perhaps most important of all: You  not only look instantly younger the moment you put it on, the look lasts all day.  Unlike other anti-aging foundations which tend to dry the skin, so that  anywhere from 10 minutes to 1 hour later, you  look like you're  105 –  Cliniques Repairwear Laser Focus Smooth Liqu Make-up  smooths skin immediately  and keeps it looking that way for hours!   I found it  kept my  skin looking moist, plump and line-free for an entire day.   I also  found it helps keep blush/bronzer in place as well, with fewer touchups needed during a 12 hour work day! 

What makes it work:  A cocktail of anti-aging ingredients that starts with  whey protein  to help skin look and feel firmer while working to diminish the appearance of  lines and wrinkles. To this is added the herbal extract Siegesbeckia Orientalis Extract as well as Palimitoyl Oligopeptide (two of the same ingredients you find in pricey anti aging creams) which work together like a support system to plump skin and fill in lines and wrinkles. To this is added Murumuru seed butter to help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier (so your complexion doesn’t dry out so make-up doesn't settle into lines and wrinkles) as well as vitamin E and SPF 15 to protect against further sun damage.

The end result is a foundation that covers and  makes skin look better both immediately and in the long run, while you get  younger looking every day! What’s not to love?

Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus All Smooth Make-up SPF 15 will be offered in 12 shades from fair to deep. For those of you who are aleady Clinique Skin Care fans, it works for skin types I and II. 

Available beginning September 2011 at Clinique counters nationwide and at Clinique.com. Suggested Retail Price: $32.50

Amazing Anti Aging Foundation # 2:  Temptu Retouch

What it does:  Utilizes the flawless but ultra light anti-aging coverage of pricey air-brushed make-up in a portable, easy-to-apply liquid foundation.

In fact, if you've ever been anywhere near a television studio or movie set make –up room then you know that what gives celebs that flawless, ageless look  is air-brushed make-up – an expensive, but effective type of air-powered spray that deposits tiny micro drops of foundation on the skin for a look that is absolutely flawless.

While at-home air brush make-up systems are available, the cost is high – and it’s not exactly like you can tuck it into your make-up bag on the go.

Enter Temptu Retouch – a portable, sem-liquid foundation with built-in brush that simulates the look of air brushed make-up without the fuss and muss. It fact, it’s  made by the same people who make the pricey air-brushed versions!

How it works:  The four main ingredients are  abscorbyl palmitate ,a  form of Vitamin C that helps prevent or counteract premature skin aging caused by oxidation, sun exposure or collagen breakdown;  Vitamin E  to improve skin’s natural barrier function and hold in moisture;  aloe extract  to heal, soothe and protect skin and help the foundation “glide” on skin;  dimethicone – a cosmetic grade silicone that acts like a primer helping the foundation to adhere to your skin for a more natural looking glow.

While the coverage is not quite as good as the Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus foundation,  if you're looking to hide minor skin  flaws with  great moisturization that keeps skin dewy and youthful - and not have it all settle  into fine lines and wrinkles  - then  this is your foundation. 

Temptu Retouch is available in 12 shades from Porcelain to Espresso, and comes with a built-in applicator brush.  Availaable online at Temptu.com or in Sephora stores nationwide. Suggested Retail Price: $47.00

So there you have it – two products that really do what they say! So no more whining – you’ll look fabulous!

Colette Bouchez is the style director of  fashion jewelry house CountryDutchess.com  and author of 11 books. She frequently writes about beauty and health and her latest book is Country Dutchess Cheap Chic Diary: Online Fashion Organizer and Web Address Book.

Originally published in part in Colette Bouchez’s Beauty Buzz column on Examiner.com .

Check out our brand new 

TAJ MAHAL

Jewelry Collection  

by Colette Bouchez 

Exclusively at CountryDutchess.com

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous! Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2009 - All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license and Colette Bouchez retains all rights in those elements.

Beauty Buzz: Save money and avoid costly mistakes buying cosmetics

By Colette Bouchez

This week's moment of beauty truth: Raise your hand if you have a drawer full of beauty product mistakes. Uh huh. We thought so. 

Now, raise your hand if you actually made those mistakes buying products online.
This week's moment of beauty truth: Raise your hand if you have a drawer full of beauty product mistakes. Uh huh. We thought so.  Now, raise your hand if you actually made those mistakes buying products online. Uh huh again.

The truth is, the temptation to buy beauty products online is enormous  – but so is the potential for beauty disasters especially  when you’re purchasing an item you can’t see, touch or try.   So what’s  a girl to do?  Shop smart!

Yes, you can buy beauty products online, cut down on your mistakes and end up with not only a drawer full products you love, but a nice chunk of change in your wallet  too – particularly since many online stores offer much cheaper prices than their brick and mortar counterparts.

To help you come away with the best online beauty deals – and find the products you’ll  really love –click here to find  7 tips guaranteed to help !

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous! Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2009 - All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license and Colette Bouchez retains all rights in those elements.

10 Summer Beauty Tips You Wont’ Want To Miss

By Colette Bouchez for CountryDutchess.com
As the summer sun scorches down and the temps heat up,  whether indoors or out you’re going to feel the heat.  And so will your make-up!
In fact, looking good in summer can be a challenge for a number of reasons – including the fact that some products simply don’t hold up well in warm temperatures, both on your face and in their container.
Of course one way around it is to just get a tan and forget about make-up until Labor Day.  But that not only increases your risk of skin cancer, it brings on those wrinkles, sometimes decades earlier than they normally would appear.
So what’s the answer?  Summer-proof your make-up routine!  From choosing the right products, to storing them in the right way, to applying  them with an eye towards warmer temperatures, all can go a long way in helping you look and feel your best all summer long.
To help you get started, here are 10 summer make-up tips you won’t want to miss!
10 summer make-up tips

Summer make-up tip # 1: Refrigerate all cream products. We’re talking cream blush, lipstick, even gel eye pencils and shadows.  When left in a room without A/C,  all of these products can get soft, mushy, and runny when you try to apply them.  Keeping them in the fridge will help keep their consistency and make them easier to apply.
Summer make-up tip #2 : Invest in an insulated cosmetic bag.  For the reasons sited above, you want to keep your favorite products out of the heat –and trust us, your handbag can become a coal stove when left on a sunny car seat for even 10 minutes.  Keeping the products you carry in an insulated bag will help insure they can be easily reapplied without “mush and gush”.  In you can’t find an insulated cosmetic bag, pick up an IcyBag - they're not just insulted they come with a small gel pack you freeze and keep in the bag, so everything stays cool - even at the beach!
Summer make-up tip # 3: Always wear primer.  Even if you don’t normally use this type of product during cooler months, it’s a must in warm weather. It will put a layer of protection between your skin and your make-up so all products will “set” longer and look better. Ditto for eye primers –they can keep eye make-up looking fresh in even the dankest, warmest weather. Try Avon's Mark Perfection Primer  or Avon's Magix Face Protector - both around $10.00
Summer make-up tip #4 : Skip the kohl pencil.  Kohl is a natural element and it’s generally not sweatproof.  If you perspire even a little, it could give you raccoon eyes far worse than your biggest mascara nightmare.
Summer make-up tip # 5: Swap out foundation for a tinted, oil-free moisturizer.  Foundations tend to be heavy and hold in the heat. That makes your face sweat more and that means runny make-up.  Moisturizers are more likely to let skin breathe, which means less perspiration and a fresher overall look.  Quality tinted moisturizers that won't break the bank include Covergirl Tinted moisturizer (about $6.00), Neutrogena Healthy Skin Enhancer (about $8.00), or Physician's Formula Organic Wear Tinted Moisturizer (about $10.00)
Continue reading on Examiner.com Beauty-Buzz: 10 summer beauty tips you don't want to miss - National beauty news | Examiner.com
Turquoise jewelry available exclusively at CountryDutchess.com
Copyright by Elle Media  2011.
All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license elements. The owners and contributors to this blog may or may not benefit from the products or services mentioned.- The original version of this article appeared in Examiner.com
Labels: Summer beauty tips, avon magix, covergirl tinted moisturizer, neutrogena skin care, mark,  Physicians Formula Organic Wear, turquoise jewelry, countrydutchess.com, colette bouchez

Flower Power: How To Wear This Year’s Hottest Floral Accessories

By Colette Bouchez for CountryDutchess.com
It’s not just the tulips that are blooming ! As warm weather finally arrives – with summer not far behind – the blossoms of spring-summer  fashion accessories are blooming in every store, poised and ready to be the hot fashion trend of the season.
Indeed, from shoes to belts, bags to scarves, even pins and earrings are bursting with flower power, using a combination of prints and bright colors to help make our dreary East Coast winter a distant memory.
Of course one of the best ways to add the flower power look to your spring outfit is by, well, adding a flower! And nothing does it prettier and more stylishly than these leopard print silk flower pins from CountryDutchess.com ( pictured above). And, they also double as a hair clip or a ponytail holder – in six spring summer shades!
But before your run out and raid the garden, here are a few tips to wear your spring flowers with grace and style.

1. Don’t overcrowd the blooms!  While it may be chic to mix certain prints, it’s not okay to mix florals. Instead max out your look with one powerful floral accessory at a time.
2. Go with the color flow -- to maximize your floral accessory, let it play on your other pieces. For example, if your accessory floral is predominantly pink, either pair it with shades of pink clothing or use it to colorize black, white or khaki.
3. It’s okay to wear a flowery shoe with a floral dress – if the shoe is a solid color. What you want to avoid: A brightly colored floral dress and brightly colored floral shoes.
4. If you’re wearing a floral dress, skip the floral handbag. What makes a stunning duo, however, is a flowered dress or skirt with a solid color handbag adorned with a flower.
5. Turn any handbag into a spring floral by attaching one, two or even three silk flower pins to that plain white or black clutch. If your bag is leather, you can avoid pin pricks by attaching the flowers to the bag’s hardware, using double sided Velcro dots available at any craft store.

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous!
Copyright by Elle Media  2011.
All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license elements. The owners and contributors to this blog may or may not benefit from the products or services mentioned.- The original version of this article appeared in Examiner.com

Jewelry Lovers Rejoice: A Style Lesson You Won’t Want To Miss!

Attention all  fashionistas and jewelry lovers alike:  If the sudden surge of summer heat is melting your lash glue and causing your make-up to run, head on over to a nicely air conditioned Barnes and Noble  and check out the book   "Vintage Jewelry Design : Classics To Collect and Wear" by Caroline Cox ( Lark Crafts, April 2011) .

Written by the virtual professor of fashionista (no kidding, she really is!) this is a coffee table book to beat all coffee table books! Featuring a glorious100 year  history of jewelry  fashion and style dating from Victorian times to the present, it is a virtual whirlwind of fashion expertise you just can't find any in any magazine.

In addition to the hundreds of dazzling  full color photos (some extremely rare) the book is  also filled with the most fascinating jewelry facts you'll ever read. This includes not just design tips from some of the major jewelry creators of our time, but also  juicy (dare we say  close to scandlous) revelations about some of  New Yorks Fifth Avenue's  most fascinating jewelers - including Tiffany, Cartier,  Boucheron, even Harry Winston.

What kind of revelations you ask?  Well for starters,  did you know that the diamond engagement ring became America's classic way to say  "I Love You"  only after the diamond industry cut a deal with Warner Brothers Studios?  It's true! 

A Diamond Means Forever ...In Hollywood

According to Cox, following the Great Depression of the 1930's  many of the top selling diamond merchants realized  that the tradtiional customers for these high priced gems were in, shall we say, a bit of a financial slump? 

To help save the diamond market  the International Diamond Merchants first went to Coco Chanel and begged her to turn her formidable fashion jewerly design skills (and popularity with the masses)  from faux gemstones to real ones.  But when that idea flopped - no one could afford to buy what she made  - the diamond merchants got the idea to bring in the cavalry.  The Hollywood cavalry that is!

Indeed, major diamond dealers like DeBeers turned to Warner Brothers  and cut a deal that would feature all the major fashionistas of the time - glamour dolls like  Jean Harlow, Carole Lombard, Bette Davis, Greta Garbo and Marlena Dietrich  to name a few - in movies and movie magazines dripping in dazzling diamond jewelry. 

But it didn't stop here!  According to Cox, the diamond gurus also persuaded screen writers to inject scenes into movies where diamonds were given as a token of romance, signifying a man's emotional as well as financial investment in love. And voila,  the rest as they say is sparkling motion picture history. 

Indeed, Cox reports that by 1941 the sale of diamonds went up by 55 percent, and by the following year,  80 percent of all American women were celebrating their engagement with a diamond solitaire, just like in the movies!

Continue reading on Examiner.com Jewelry lovers rejoice: Some style lessons you won’t want to miss - New York accessories | Examiner.com

Copyright by Elle Media  2011.
All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license elements. The owners and contributors to this blog may or may not benefit from the products or services mentioned.- The original version of this article appeared in Examiner.com

Sunglasses Go Retro-Chic This Summer

By Colette Bouchez for CountryDutchess.com
If the new Paris runway shows are any indication of what’s to come …and you know they are :) - expect to see sunglasses crossing over from a protect-your-eyes necessity to a wow-fashion-statement for summer 2011.

Indeed, sunglasses completed the look for many major designers – and retro seemed to be the theme taking center stage. Styles headed to  our way in the upcoming season  ranged from Dior’s  Lucille Ball cat eye look of the 50’s, to  a return of the Gloria Steinem aviator of the 60’s from Dries Van Noten and Paul et Joe, to Rochas updated  John Lennon wire rounds of the 70’s –  also featured by Lanvin.

Pierre Cardin  went for the Sony 3D look, with futuristic styling  that oddly enough also had a kind of Jetson’s retro look, while  Stella McCartney took us back to those giant school-girl glasses of the 80’s – updated in bright solid colors – while Sonia Rykeil went Beach Blanket Bingo with large, round glasses with cookie cutter edges.

The one great thing about having all these different styles is that they are indeed different from one another. And that means  finding the style to suit your face shape will be easier than ever this season.

Here are a few tips when shopping for your fashion sun glass look this spring:

1. Round faces look best in squared glasses, while long faces look best in round glasses. Oval faces can wear any frame shape, while square and heart faces need the softer lines of aviator or round glasses.
2. Choosing a frame that’s too small for your head makes your face look larger and heavier – so when choosing a frame bigger really is better. Rule of thumb: The tip of the frame on either side should extend out from your head just a bit. If you can see the sides of your face peeking out from the edges of the glasses, the frame is too small.
3. Making sure the lenses are approved to filter out both UVA and UVB is a given. But also make sure that the lenses provide full coverage of your eyes and the area just underneath. That’s key to reducing your risk of wrinkles!
4. And finally, if you can only afford to buy one pair of sunglasses this season; pick a neutral color frame – like tortoise, black, or white – so they go with every outfit.  If you can afford two pair, get the second one in a flashy fashion color which this season will include pink, yellow, red and green.

Where To Buy: While we can’t say for sure yet which New York stores will feature which new designs, in general you can find Dior glasses at Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman, Dries Van Noten and Paul & Joe  at Barney’s New York, while you can nab a nifty pair of Stella McCartney sunglasses at Sunglass Hut, with shops located throughout Manhattan.

Colette Bouchez is the style director of CountryDutchess.com

Copyright by Elle Media  2011.
All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license elements. The owners and contributors to this blog may or may not benefit from the products or services mentioned. - The original version of this article appeared in Examiner.com

Cubic Zirconia: 6 Tips For Buying CZ Jewelry

By Colette Bouchez for CountryDutchess.com

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend – unless of course she has some fabulous CZ’s – cubic zirconia “diamonds” that can rival the look of expensive stones at a fraction of the price.

But…there are CZs and there are CZs. And when it comes to choosing your cubic zirconia jewelry, it pays to be choosy, as not all stones are alike. While some can truly rival the look of a diamond – making it difficult for even a jeweler to glance the stone and know if it’s real - others can be a dead give-away-fake even to the untrained eye.

So, what should you look for – and more importantly avoid – when buying cubic zirconia jewelry? Here are few tips that can help.

 

Cubic zirconia jewelry tip # 1: Don’t go over the rainbow.

While part of the charm of a cubic zirconia are those flashes of colored light that can emanate from a stone, the truth is, the more “color flashes” a stone gives off the less it looks like a diamond. The reason: Diamonds reflect only white light which is what gives them their brilliance. A top quality CZ will shine with mostly pure white or blue light – so if you’re going for the look of “real” go for stones with minimal color flashes.

Cubic zirconia jewelry tip # 2:Grades matter – and not just in school!

Like diamonds, cubic zirconias are graded from A – which represents the lowest quality – through to AAAAA, which represents the highest quality. So what’s the difference? The higher the quality, the harder the stone and the more white light the stone reflects – so the more it will look like a real diamond. Although most costume jewelry is made with AA or AAA cubic zirconia, there are some lines which do feature AAAA or even AAAAA. So, if you’re spending more than $50 on a piece, it’s worth asking the grade of the stone. Most jewelers, even online jewelers, should have the answer. Some online stores post the quality of their CZs on their home pages, information pages or product descriptions pages.

 

Cubic zirconia jewelry tip # 3: Clarity Counts

Like a diamond, when it comes to choosing a cubic zirconia, clarity counts. This is the measure of how clear a stone looks to the eye. Some manufacturing processes cloud the stone slightly which in turn reduces the sparkle, and gives the jewelry a slightly grey-toned appearance. If your CZ stone does not look white, if you can’t see down into the center of the stone, then the clarity has been compromised. That means it not only looks less real, it also means it may not last as long as you would like.

 

Cubic zirconia jewelry tip # 4: Don't be fooled

Ads which call their CZ jewelry “synthetic diamonds.” are being somewhat deceptive. Creating a synthetic gem requires that the stone have the exact same physical and optical gemological properties as the real gem – but created in a lab instead of in a mine. Currently there are no synthetic diamonds available for widespread commercial sale, and if they are, they are priced on par with real diamonds. A cubic zirconia is not a synthetic diamond - it is a man-made stone that can look like a diamond, and that’s a big difference.

 

Cubic zirconia Jewelry Tip # 5: Harder is better -

While a diamond is the hardest gemstone there is – it rates 10 on the Mohs scale, which is the measurement of how hard a stone is. But, a good cubic zirconia can come close - up to 8.5 on the Mohs scale. That said, there are also cubic zirconia that rate lower – and when they do, they can scratch easily. That’s because sand and dirt rate a 6 on the Mohs scale – so a stone which rates a 6 or lower can easily be scratched via normal every day wear. While this usually doesn’t matter much in earrings, it is key for rings and bracelets, which are subject to more bumps and grinds in the course of daily living. Virtually all AAAA and AAAAA CZ stones are 8.5 in hardness, so again, look for the stone rating to get the best buy for your money and a stone that lasts.

To read more tips on buying cubic zirconia jewelry, click here.

To learn more about any of the earrings featured just click the picture!

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous! Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 - All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license and Colette Bouchez retains all rights in those elements. This article was originally published in Examiner.com

Tags: Cubic Zirconia; Cubic Zirconia Jewelry, CZ Jewelry, Cubic Zirconia Buying Tips, Colette Bouchez; CountryDutchess.com

Michael Maron On Oscar's Red Carpet

 CountryDutchess.com

The response to this guest blog was so huge, many of you wrote to tell us you could not access the story. So to make sure everyone gets a chance to read and download Michael Maron's Red Carpet Beauty Tips we are running this encore presentation.  ENJOY!

Who Rocked  Oscar's Red Carpet …
& Who Didn’t 

By Michael  Maron

When it comes to Oscar 2011, there was good news and bad news.

First the good news: Most everyone looked good.

Now the bad news: Most everyone looked good.

Maybe it’s just me, but I wanted more “wows,” and I also wanted some total train wrecks. Although glam was certainly abundant, I’m not certain anyone really rocked the carpet the way most of us expected.  I personally had  hoped for outfits that might even start a trend or at least be unforgettable. Perhaps the stylists have gotten it so right that they’re afraid to take too many risks. How I miss over-the-top hot messes. Don’t you?

What I liked: Sexy, body-revealing gowns, mermaid silhouettes and a return to sleeves, trains and a few bustles. Amongst a sea of neutrals, there was lots of color (especially plums, lavenders and reds), interesting metallics, big jewelry, soft hairstyles and subtle makeup.

But rather than bore you with an endless rundown of who wore what, I’ve narrowed down my picks to three hits and three misses.  All of them  encompass my personal choice for the  four essential elements of a total look: Fashion, Accessories, Hair and Makeup.

THE OSCAR RED CARPET HITS


Red Carpet Hit # 1:  Jennifer Hudson

Fashion: Oscar winner, Jennifer, showed off her newly svelte figure, but played up her curves in a show-stopping vibrant tangerine Atelier Versace halter gown, which revealed her great shoulders, hugged her bodice and flowed into a train of one-sided ruffles. Her plunging neckline screamed sexy but the fit needed a hint of tweaking at the bosom for a more flattering décolletage. Unexpected purple shoes gave the outfit a modern twist.

Accessories: Three Neil Lane platinum and diamond wide bracelets, a large diamond ring, and a pair of long diamond basket earrings added the perfect bling to the perfect outfit.

Hair: Sporting a classic and polished hairstyle, Jennifer’s off the face, high swept, uber shiny hair could not have complemented the outfit more.

Makeup: Jennifer’s skin looked flawless, although her foundation appeared a tinge too orange and needed some finessing at the hairline. Bronzer gave her a beautiful glow, and her brows were perfectly groomed. A neutral eye shadow with a sweep of black upper eyeliner (winged at the outer corner) achieved a clean look. Faux lashes added pop. A color-coordinated translucent lip color tied in beautifully with the dress.

Red Carpet Hit # 2:  Hailee Steinfeld

Fashion: Props to first-time Oscar nominee, Hailee, for her amazing blush-pink, tea-length princess dress, which she co-designed with Marchesa. At only fifteen, Hailee brought her “true grit” to fashion for her first walk on Oscar’s red carpet. The embroidered tulle, ballerina-esque dress, was eye-catching, yet age appropriate. Delicate embroidered crystals on an “illusion netting” around the neckline seamlessly twinkled from her pale skin. Champagne-colored Ferragamo peep-toe, platform shoes complemented the dress exquisitely.

Accessories: Hailee’s Fred Leighton platinum and diamond narrow headband was the perfect finishing touch to complement her outfit and proved that less can be more. A feminine Fred Leighton platinum and diamond ring and a silver satin Ferragamo envelope clutch completed her look.
Hair: Hailee wore her hair pulled back in a high, twisted bun, which brought out her face, elongated her neck and created a ballerina effect. It was the perfect choice for her statement headband.

Makeup: Inspired by the pink tone of her dress, Hailee’s eye shadow consisted of soft pinks, beiges and a hint of plum. A daub of gold liner was placed under her lower lid. Pink was also used on her cheeks. A pinky-rose lipstick with a hint of shimmer in the center of her lower lip was her finishing touch.

Red Carpet Hit # 3:  Halle Berry

Fashion: Oscar winner Halle  rarely disappoints when it come to showing off her smoking hot body. Her dazzling nude-colored, strapless Marchesa corset gown with a crystal-encrusted bodice accented her curves, emphasized her signature shoulders and complemented her skin tone. She seemed to glide along the Red Carpet with a billowy, ruffled organza and silk tulle train. She donned Louboutin peep-toe heels. And all of it worked incredibly well together.

Accessories: Sans necklace or bracelets, Halle kept it simple with a delicate pair of Neil Lane platinum diamond drop earrings and a platinum and colored diamond ring.  Good choices for her outfit.

Hair: Halle’s short and piece-y, pixie-style hair brought focus to her extraordinary face.

Makeup: Her skin was glowing, her eyes were smoky and her brows were meticulously manicured – all of which help bring attention to  her beautiful face. Brown eye shadow with black inner eyeliner brought out her exquisite eyes and a nude, glossy mouth complemented the dress while keeping Halle’s look soft and modern.

THE OSCAR RED CARPET MISSES


Red Carpet Miss # 1:  Cate Blanchett

Fashion: This Oscar winning star was fashion forward, but Cate’s gown was simply odd. Typically an award winning stunner, this time  graceful Cate may have walked the Red Carpet but she sure  didn’t rock it. She chose a pale lilac, pleated chiffon Givenchy Couture gown with structured action-hero shoulders and an armor-like front with accents of neon yellow near the neck. The same neon yellow is repeated in a huge crisscross on the back. At the chest, the dress has a large unadorned circle, surrounded by an embellishment of pearls, in a design reminiscent of a bakery cake decoration. The overall detail felt much  like a confusing Rorschach test –  it could either be an ornate lobster bib or the back of a Louis XIV chair – can’t quite decide.

Accessories: Cate kept it simple with a pair of gold and diamond earrings and a single yellow and gold tassel bracelet by Van Cleef & Arpels.  That worked.

Hair: Her short and straight, parted do was simple and chic.

Makeup: Understated, clean-looking makeup with taupe and gray shimmery eye shadows and nude lipstick harmonized beautifully with the color of her dress.

Red Carpet Miss # 2: Scarlett Johansson

Fashion: Scarlett wore a Dolce & Gabbana plum-colored, lace floral column gown. The high neck, sleeveless frock bordered on being boring, dated and aging for the otherwise  sexy Scarlett we have come to expect. If the lace had been more see-through and delicate perhaps she would not have appeared to be wearing a doily tablecloth.

Accessories: Scarlett’s jewelry was kept minimal with an Anna Hu cocktail ring. It was her only piece of jewelry and a fun statement for the ensemble.

Hair: Her hair may have been edgy, but the new shag came off as looking  messy and unkempt for the Oscars.

Makeup: Scarlett’s smoldering copper and gold eye shadow paired with a pink-toned lip color was movie star modern and good look.


Red Carpet Miss # 3: Helena Bonham Carter

Fashion: Oscar nominee, Helena, dressed outside the box, but also outside the century. She wore a black velvet and taffeta bustle gown by costume designer Colleen Atwood. The 18^th Century style  goth –esque  corseted dress was certainly a lovely homage to the costume designer, but it would have been a nice change of pace for the beautiful star to have raised a few brows by wearing something current. At least something from this century.

Accessories: Helena wore Solange Azegury-Partridge jewels – but then  chose a ten-dollar accessory for her hair that’s usually  used to decorate flip-flops. What’s up with that?  She added a British Union Jack garter and toted a Lulu Guinness fan-shaped clutch to complete the ensemble – neither one great choices.

Hair: Helena’s hair was very curled, very high and very tendrilled. 

Makeup: With everything else going on, Helena’s makeup was actually sedate and quite good. She wore warm-toned eye shadow, brown liner and individual lashes. That, along with a pinky-beige mouth, looked contemporary, which fortunately and unfortunately didn’t relate to her period hair and attire. With that said, you can’t help but love her originality and zest for fashion and beauty. She’s a one of a kind …and we’ re lucky to have her!

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous!

 Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011.
All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license elements. The owners and contributors to this blog may or may not benefit from the products or services mentioned.  -

Get Your Growl On With Animal Print Accessories

By Colette Bouchez
For CountryDutchess.com

It takes a special kind of woman to go “animal print” head-to-toe. I’m not sure any of us actually want to be that woman …but most of us can learn from her mistakes!

Indeed, the key to wearing animal print is to use it sparingly – and one of the best ways to do that is via accessories. From shoes to handbags, scarves to belts, jewelry, hats even gloves, accessorizing with animal print can be fun and stylish – and keep you looking current without spending a ton of money.

The key to making the look work: Choosing wisely where you place the “growl”.

Here’s a few tips to making animal print accessories work for every season.

1. Don’t over populate the zoo. And that means selecting one animal print per outfit. If you’ve got the leopard shoes and bag going on, don’t mix in the zebra belt or the giraffe print scarf. Unlike other prints which can be mixed and matched, blending in too many animals makes for one untidy fashion playground!

2. Do pair your animal print accessories with bright colors – but chose just one color. For example a great red dress can look amazing when accessorized with leopard . But if the top is red the bottom is blue and the bag is navy, adding an animal print scarf or shoes is just too much activity for the eye to focus on at once.

3. Wear no more than 3 animal print accessories at once. If you’ve got the bag and shoes happening, you can add an animal scarf, pin, bangle, or sweater – but not all of them at once.

4. The biggest animal makes the loudest roar - true in the jungle and on the runway. So the larger your animal print accessory, the fewer pieces you need to play it up. If you’ve got a great animal print topper or a huge oversized bag let it do the growling for you and accent it with other colors, not more animal print.

5. Tiny animals get noticed too – which means you don’t have to wear a lot of animal print to make an impression. Choosing one item – like a zebra print belt on a LBD or leopard print scarf on a LWD – can give you the updated look without going over the top

Flower pin available at CountryDutchess.com

To see a fabulous slide show of the latest animal print accessories at great prices click here.

Oringally printed by  Examiner.com.

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous! Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 - All Rights Reserved.

Rose Gold: Ten Tips For Wearing The Hot New Metal for 2011

By Colette Bouchez
for CountryDutchess.com

When Katherine Zeta Jones lit up this years Palm Beach Film Fesitval Runway with her dazzling style she wasn’t just looking fabulous – she was on spot with the hottest new trend in jewelry: Rose Gold.

In fact, beginning right now and going forward into Fall 2011, rose gold is making a huge fashion comeback. From major runway forces like Michael Kors, to the craftsperson on Etsy.com, you will be seeing lots more of this warm, rosy metal from fingers to toes.

Of course if you’ve got the zillions of KZJ, then of course you can do the whole look – from earrings to ankle bracelets in this stunning warm toned metal.

But what if you’re only going to buy one or two pieces? Are you stuck with wearing just those two pieces over and over? Not at all!

Rose gold not only pairs deliciously with certain other fashion metal finishes, it also goes great with some wow punch colors. Learning the art of combining them will help you get the look you want without swapping your mortgage payment just to stay on trend!

Here are some tips for how to wear rose gold – what to mix it with and how to be on trend and on budget!

Rose Gold Tips and Advice.


1. Rose gold is made primarily by blending copper with gold – and the more rosy the color the more copper it contains. So your first rose gold fashion tip is to pair it with copper jewelry. Be it bracelets, rings, or earrings, inexpensive copper jewelry will set off the glow of a single piece of rose gold jewelry, keeping you in the right color without breaking your budget.

2.Pair rose gold with turquoise. Nothing, we mean NOTHING looks better than a rose gold watch snuggled up next to a few turquoise bangles. Or choose a pair of fabulous turquoise earrings trimmed in colorado topaz crystals or a turquoise ring to go with your rose gold bracelets. Also seek out the hot new Mosiac Turquoise which blends tiny bits of copper and other earth tones with turquoise for an amazing look with rose gold.

3. Want to give your rose gold jewelry an even rosier glow ? Pair it with coral, rose quartz or red crystal earrings or bracelets for the ultimate red gold glow.

4. When mixing rose gold with yellow gold realize that they both come in many different shades. To get the best blend look for either antique gold (with a darker hue) or a green gold . Both will set off the glow of rose gold and make it stand out . If your gold is too “yellow” your rose gold will fade into the background and won’t even be noticed.

5. When pairing rose gold with silver search out a soft, muted antique silver as opposed to a bright silver. Again, you want the rose gold to come center stage so don’t outshine it with a bright silver.

6. When purchasing rose gold remember there is no such thing as “pure” rose gold – so don’t fall for that sales pitch! Since it’s an alloy blended with yellow gold, you can never have “pure”rose gold.

To learn more tips on how to buy rose gold - and how to get the best bargains - CLICK HERE.

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous! Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 - All Rights Reserved.Reprinted courtesy  of Examiner.com

Wear Red - Get Noticed - Save Lives!

By Colette Bouchez
for CountryDutchess.com

As February marks the start of The Heart Truth – a month long celebration of women’s heart health awareness – women everywhere are urged to wear red. As a reminder of the importance of our heart health, it’s a kind of fashion-meets-science celebration from which every woman can benefit. In fact, as Fashion Week unfolds in New York City, Mercedes-Benz devotes one entire evening (February 9th) to the Red Dress Collection - an annual fashion show of the hottest red dresses on the runway.

And while wearing a red dress of your own is the ultimate way to make your mark this month, don’t overlook the power of red accessories to bring attention to the cause, and help you look fabulous in the process!


To help you get in the spirit , here are some style suggestion on how to add a touch of a red with a touch of class!

1. Never overlook the power of a great pair of red earrings! If you choose a chandelier style, they might be all the red you need to bring attention to the cause. Wear them with the LBD, with your jeans, with a black or navy business suit and watch the color pop put all eyes on you!

2. Dorothy didn’t just discover Oz in those ruby red slippers – she gave us all a fashion tip that will last for eons of time. We’re talking red shoes – and they can make a powerful fashion statement no matter what you wear them with. If they’re red stilettos, all the better – just ask Carrie Underwood! Pair your own ruby slippers with almost any neutral color outfit for the greatest color impact.

3. The little red bag! Whether it’s a clutch, a tote, a hobo or a satchel, wearing a red bag adds a dash of panache to any outfit ! Pair it with those red shoes and/or a red belt and you’re not only making your statement about women and heart disease, you’ll be making your mark as pretty savvy fashion diva too!

4. Red tights. We know – they’re not for everyone. But if you have great legs, pair them with red or black pumps and wear them with that LBD and you’ll have a pop color statement that won’t soon be forgotten.

5. Red gloves. Michelle Obama set the trend just last month – and instantly red gloves became the “it” accessory of the moment.

6. We’re certain princess- Kate -in-waiting will singlehandedly bring back the fabulous hat as the accessory du-jour, you can get a jump start on the trend by celebrating women’s heart health month with a brand new red hat! Whether you choose a wide floppy brim (ala Jennifer Lopez), a snazzy new fedora or the subdued beret or knitted stocking cap, pair it with a black winter coat, or a denim jacket and you’ve got the look!

7. Wear red lingerie. Even if no one but you knows, let it serve as your personal reminder to take women’s heart health seriously – and to treasure the health of your heart by taking as good a care of yourself as you can!

Continue reading on Examiner.com: Accessories watch: Wear red - get noticed  and see a fabulous slide show of gorgeous red accessories - at discount prices!

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous!

Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 -Reprinted by permission of Examiner.com

7 Tips For Avoiding Winter Hat Hair

Speaking from a strictly fashion standpoint, one of the worst things about this snowy, cold  winter is, well, hat hair.  While we hate to be shallow – I mean there could be worse problems like, oh, say, unplowed streets and cars turned into ice sculptures – still, in the overall scheme of looking fabulous, cold weather definitely has it’s down side.

And nowhere is this more obvious than when it comes to  that squished, squashed,  Bride-of-Frankenstein-electric hat hair look that can happen faster than it takes the bus to go from 65th and Madison to Times Square.

While there are a number of “hair tricks” you can try  - like reducing static cling by spraying your hair with  with leave-on conditioner  before putting on your hat -  one of the best  winter fashion tricks is to  look for head gear that is the least likely to cause problems.

To this end here are 7  winter hat  tricks and tips  that can help.

1. If you opt for a knitted beret, cloche or cuffed brim hat you’ll do decidedly better if you choose one made of an all natural fiber – such as cotton or wool . Synthetics, particularly nylon,  are not only more likely to cause static electricity that pulls hair into the most awkward positions and keeps it there,  they can also cause your head to perspire  more – and you know what happens when water and electricity combine!  It’s not a pretty sight.

2.  If you’re choosing what is called a “hard shell” hat – a fedora, cowboy hat, or wide floppy brim leather or suede  hat - make certain it’s a little larger rather than a little smaller.   The reason: The more air that you have circulating under your hat, the less likely you are to persprire, and the less likely it is that your hat will push  against your hair and flatten your style. 

3. If you just love the warmth of those faux fur hats – particularly the new Russian revolution style complete with ear flaps so popular in NYC this season -  be forewarned, they can be one of the worst hat-hair offenders around. The way around it: Gently rub the inside of the hat with a static-free laundry sheet before putting it on.  This will help reduce the static caused by the faux fur rubbing against your scalp and this in turn will help keep your hair from sticking together when the hat is removed.

4.Try a head wrap! Like a hat with no top, a head wrap keeps your head and ears warm without the flattening effects of a full hat.  Though they won't keep you quite as warm as a full hat, and do you no good in the snow or rain, if you're looking for a little warmth,  alot of style and no hat hair, this is the choice for you!

Continue reading on Examiner.com: 7 TIPS FOR AVOIDING WINTER HAT HAIR!

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous! Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 - All Rights Reserved.
Hat pictured above available at Bloomingdales.com

Trend Watch: The Soft Bangle!

By Colette Boudchez

for CountryDutchess.com

The Trend: Bhangra Bangles

What is it:  Fun and flirty Bollywood inspired bangle bracelets  that add an instant pop of hot color to any outfit.

What Makes It Special: Unlike hard-shell bangles which click and clang and bang against  your wrist – not to mention your laptop- while trying to work, the Bhangra bangle is a rubber core wrapped to perfection in  thousands of yards of smooth,shimmery silk threads in the most amazing colors! So it’s soft on the wrist, totally silent, yet looks amazing!

How To Wear It :  Pop a little black dress right now ; perfect for an all-white pantsuit for spring/summer;  dress up your favorite jeans and peasant blouse for a totally updated Bohemian look.

Other Accessories:  Try a pair of chandelier earrings in a matching color, or for an even dressier look, add a few rhinestone or gold wire bangles  in between the Bhangras.

To learn more, including where to buy at a discount, continue reading  Accessory Trend Watch: The soft bangle - National accessories | Examiner.com

The Gloved One: The Forgotten Accessory Makes A Comeback!

By Colette Bouchez for CountryDutchess.com


When you think of gloves do you think of:
     
         A) What your mother wore to do the dishes.
        B) Michael Jackson.
        C) How to keep your hands from freezing.
        D)  Making a fashion statement.

Well unless you picked D, listen up:  Gloves are not just for hand warming anymore!   While the days of the prim and proper "little white glove" may have gone the way of tea parties,  by no means have we said goodbye to the sophisticated  look this accessory can provide.

In fact, that’s a lesson First Lady Michelle Obama seemed to learn well, when, earlier this week her bright red leather gloves - worn to greet the President of China -  outshone even her Steve McQueen red gown worn to the State Dinner later that night.

And yes, its likely  Mrs. Obama did have keeping her hands warm in mind, especially with the chilly DC temperatures. But skipping the traditional dark leather glove and going for that pop of red color – set against an otherwise monochromatic navy outfit - she  turned her gloves from utilitarian hand warmers into an iconic style statement !

But Mrs. Obama certainly isn’t alone in bringing attention to the glove!  This year designers like Vera Wang and Carolina Herrera gave a nod to this accessory by introducing the long, ‘opera glove’  into their collection.

In the past  these long, elbow-and-above length gloves were relegated to stuffy embassy parties and Cinderella ball gowns.  But in today's updated version  these - and other designers - showed them in suede and leather with edgy rock-star style embossing and cut outs - and  they paired them with everything from little print dresses to faux fur vests. Some long gloves – like those by  Fatima Lopes – were fingerless and studded,  and as edgy as any rocker could want! 

That said, not every glove is right for every occasion -  or even right for every woman.  Moreover, there are a few tricks necessary to take your  look from  utilitarian hand warmer to fashion statement .  Click the link below to find 5 fashion tips you don’t want to be without!

Continue reading on Examiner.com: The gloved one: The forgotten accessory makes a comeback - National accessories | Examiner.com http://www.examiner.com/accessories-in-national/the-gloved-one-the-forgotten-accessory-makes-a-comeback#ixzz1BhP0lVXT

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous!

Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 - All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license and Colette Bouchez retains all rights in those elements. The creators of this blog may or may not benefit directly or indirectly from the materials presented herein.

Golden Globes 2011: 3 Top Style Trends To Watch This Year!

 Ruffles, color and shape from this year's Golden Globe Awards, will set the trend styles for the coming seasons!  Here's what you need to know!

 By Colette Bouchez

For CountryDutchess.com

As the celebs made their way down this year’s Golden Globe Red Carpet  we saw  the hottest new trends in color, style, and shape literally being made before our very eyes!

Indeed, from stars of the big screen to the little screen, from the worlds of music, movie and  television arts and sciences, there was certainly no shortage of brand new  glam looks  from this year’s presenters, nominees and winners alike – with many taking their cue from that old school Hollywood heyday when stars looked like, well stars!

So, what were the trends likely to  influence the way we will be dressing in the months to come?   Here’s what we saw as the three major fashion trends from the very first award show of 2011 - The  Golden Globes.

 Trend # 1 : Ruffles!  This age-old feminine touch was everywhere the eye could see – with ruffles on gowns from top to bottom –and sometimes in between. While  some  were a bit more traditional – like the ruffled gowns worn by Amy Adams, Kaley Cuoco ,  Lea Michelle  and Jennifer Lawrence ( who paired ruffles with the French corset look for a real Wow) there were also those who added a bit more edgy look and feel to their ruffles - like Julie Bowens  pale grey  grown with ruffles (shown above) that had that decidedly “torn parchment”  romantic appeal. As such we predict that ruffles will dominate the formal and cocktail party dress  scene throughout spring and summer 2011 - including weddings, proms and special events.

To discover the remaining Golden Globe style trends to watch for 2011, continue reading this article and the rest of my exclusive award show fashion coverage at Examiner.com -

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous! Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2009 - All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license and Colette Bouchez retains all rights in those elements.

Make Your Own Golden Globe Red Carpet Entrance! Here's How!

Make Your Own Red Carpet Entrance!  Here's How!

From CountryDutchess.com 

You’ll see them on celebrities and super models alike – and they have the power to change the look of an outfit in an instant. What are they?  “statement earrings” – those  big bold and dazzling designs with the power to become the focal point of  your fashion statement.

On this week's Golden Globe Red Carpet expect to see statement earrings come front and center  with everything  from hoops to dangles, drops to chandeliers,  “making the outfit” for a number of  top stars!  In fact,  by Monday morning we may forget the gowns and the shoes, but it’s a sure bet that we’ll remember those fabulous statement earrings!

But before you run  out and try to duplicate the look, there are style tips you should know. Indeed, while your statement earring can positively get you noticed , you don’t want your statement to be “I’m fashion clueless”!

So to  help you cultivate your own personal Red Carpet look, and  keep you looking stylish, up-to-date and never over-the-top, here are a few guidelines for making your entrance and making sure your statement is “ I’ve arrived and aren’t I fabulous!”

How To Make A Fashion Statement 

1.Let the earrings do all the work. And by that it means keep your other jewelry to a minimum.  If you wear a necklace limit it to a thin chain and small pendant.  You can add a few bangles and maybe  ring – but remember,  statement earrings are  focal point  accessory  so don’t distract the eye with other large or showy pieces of jewelry.

2. KISS – Keep it simple sweetie!  Statement earrings look best with simple outfits – so think little black dress for nighttime and little black suit for day. If your outfit is laden with sequins or other embellishments you’ve just got too much going on for your statement earring to take center stage.
But here's a tip you won't want to miss:

Continue reading on Examiner.com: Make A Golden Globe Entrance

 where our very own Colette Bouchez is now the Accessories Reporter for stylish  New Yorkers!

Earrings pictured above available exclusively at CountryDutchess.com
 
For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous! Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 - All Rights Reserved. In addition to US Copyright, the text of this CheapChicDiary article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License. All Formatting and style elements of this page are not available under this license and Colette Bouchez retains all rights in those elements.

OPRAH’S Bootights: Hot Style For Chilly Winter Weather

By Colette Bouchez 
Okay, so it’s freezing outside – and probably snowing too – and boots are pretty much the only logical footwear choice. But if you’re like most women, this smart fashion choice also presents a problem: How to keep your boot socks from sliding down, bunching up, and probably getting caught in your shoe zipper.

Enter Bootights – the brand ingenious fashion invention  of entrepreneur Shelby Mason,  making their official debut on OPRAH, January 13^th.

So what are “Bootights”? From the waist to just below the knee they are fashion tights. But attached just below the knee and running to the tips of your tootsies are a pair of fabulous warm and cozy boot socks that slip effortlessly inside your boots to combine function with fashion in a whole new way!

Mason says the “aha “ moment behind the invention came during an airport security check in a blustery cold Chicago airport. While making her way through the security line Mason had to remove her boots, revealing not only  her gray tights but a sloppy old pair of white tube socks she had worn for extra comfort and warmth. Worse yet, she says one sock slid down her ankle causing the zipper in the boot to stick and snag a brand new pair of tights. Her frustration – and some airport embarrassment – stayed with her throughout the trip and by the time her plane had landed the idea for Bootights had taken flight!

Bootights comes in ankle and mid-calf heights perfect for taller boots and ankle booties.   Fashion style tights ( with matching sock styles) include grey flannel pinstripe, classic argyle and sexy fishnet, and of course there are also core basis in black and brown.  Find Bootights for just $30 at Macy’s and other stores nationwise., Or visit Bootights.com . And be sure to check  them out on OPRAH on January 13^th but remember …you discovered it here first!

Reprinted with permission from Examiner.com/New-York

Visit them for even more fabulous accessories news by Colette Bouchez

For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous!
Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 - All Rights Reserved.

In The Pink: New Accessories For Spring Go Girly And Bright!

 By Colette Bouchez for CountryDutchess.com

What could be better after a long, cold, dreary winter than a burst of spring flowers?   Well, how about a burst of pink!

And if a number of Spring 2011 sizzling runway shows are right, being Pretty In Girly Pink will be THE way to say  “bah bye winter” and “hello sassy spring!”  in 2011.

Indeed, this year saw a number of key designers grace their spring 2011 lines with pops of pink color  – often in the most unexpected ways.    Warm pink bags and belts added pops of color to spring and summer whites at Lowe & Giles runway show,  while pink  sequined sneakers ( yes SNEAKERS) took jeans to a whole new level!  Even Nike got in on the act with their upcoming HOT HOT HOT pink running shoe!

Meanwhile designers like Peter Som, Jil Sander, Valentino and Badgly Mischka, made pink the focus of a number of key pieces in their lines.

At CountryDutchess.com  pink earrings are everywhere! From dazzling chandeliers to sexy little dangles,  from antique rose to sizzling hot pink,  mix them with black leather and denim for an edgy look or more pastels for that true spring princess look!

And what kind of make up goes best with pink accessories ? Why pink of course! And Clinique is one of the first to jump on the girly bandwagon with an entire pink collection of coordinated lip glosses, blush and eye shadows. And, a great little pink bag to boot!

To make your pink look work remember these 3 key tips:

1. Pinks come in all shades and not all of them compliment one another.  Look for undertones of “cool”  ( think icy pink to magenta) or  “warm” (think salmon pink to desert rose)  and try to blend pinks from a similar color family.
2. Depending on the shade of pink you chose, it could dominate the look. The rule of fashion thumb: The brighter the shade of pink the more basic the rest of your palette should be. 
3. Use pink  in unexpected ways!  If the color is just too ‘girly’ for your look, then use it to shock and pop your look – such as wearing a hot pink lipstick with a black leather jacket or a  pair of pink chandelier earrings with a denim jacket.   Remember, pink doesn’t have to conjure up images of prom dates and bridesmaid dresses!

Reprinted with permission from Examiner.com/NY.  To see their fantastic slide slow of the hottest new pink accessories  click here.

 For round-the-clock fabulous time & money saving beauty and style advice visit CheapChicDiary.com - or visit us anytime at CountryDutchess.com - Your Source For Fabulous!

Copyright by Colette Bouchez 2011 - All Rights Reserved.