RD Style: Preview Spring 2014 Collection

Last week I got the celeb style treatment as I sipped on très bien cocktails, and nibbled on fabulous hors d’oeuvres at the exclusive preview of RD Style's  swanky new Spring 2014 collection by it's president Samantha Hollinger. 

 

 

The collection included everything from super trendy skirts and sweaters to incredibly stunning accessories. 

 

 

 

 

This leather bag was certainly the talk of the night.  Who ever thought a book bag could be so sexy?  I loved the sleek black look combined with the edgy chain embellishment along the straps.  Its clean with a unique sophistication. 

 

 

 

 

Without a doubt, this was my favorite piece!  I love the shape, size and can't resist that chain embellishment!  It's strap is a chain that coordinates with its front, but can also be tucked away and carried as a clutch.  Its the perfect finishing detail to a pair of light jeans and sexy black boots!

 

 

 

 

This jacket totally caught my eye.  The bold color paired with the bold texture is a total hit that's sure to spice up your look for the season.  I'm already partial to it's pairing over a printed top with black bottoms.

 

 

 

 

The endless creations one can make with black and white is always amazing. It's a classic feel that never gets old.  Each ensemble can take on a totally different look, simply by adding layers, or changing textures and fabrics.  The looks cover every part of the spectrum.    

 

 

 

 

I was psyched to see this animal print!  Knee length skirts are very popular this season and this one can easily transform from office chic into a girl's night out ensemble and I LOVE that. A fitted black turtle neck with some gold accessories is the ultimate. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Do you see any pieces you're just itching to snag??

 

Keep up to date and follow RD Style on:

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Origins Smarty Plants Launch Event Benefiting Charity: Water

I recently had the pleasure of attending Origins Smarty Plants™ CC SPF 20 Skin complexion corrector launch event benefiting charity: water, hosted by Shameless actress Emmy Rossum.  The evening was an incredible inspiration, held at Jimmy at The James Hotel overlooking a breathtaking view of the Manhattan skyline.    

Smarty Plants™ uses SMART technology to protect, perfect and correct skin, containing algae that hydrates the skin. Similarly, charity: water, a non-profit organization bringing clean, safe drinking water to people in developing countries, implements Remote Sensors that have intuitive technology to keep water flowing, correcting if the water project is broken.

Origins and its newest product, Smarty Plants, is helping charity: water correct the global water crisis. Help by donating $30 and Origins will match the first 1,000 pledges.  $30 provides one person in Ethiopia clean drinking water for up to 10 years. Tweet #donate #smartyplants or click here to show your support! 

Emmy Rossum wowed us all as she walked the Green Carpet in a coordinating J. Mendel blush skirt and top paired with sky-high nude Christian Louboutin heels and matching clutch. Additional celeb attendees showed support including : Star of The Following and active charity: water supporter Jessica Stroup, Influencer and Author, Kelly Bensimon, Star of MTV’s The Challenge and People.com Blogger, Diem Brown and  Star of MTV’s Real World San Diego, AshleyMarie Kelsey.  Guests enjoyed a night of dancing to music played by DJ Hannah Bronfman and sipping on #SmartyPlants Mojitos while showing support and dedication to the cause.  

Retail: $35.00

Not to be overshadowed was the belle of the ball herself:  Origins Smarty Plants™ CC SPF 20 Skin complexion corrector.  This is perhaps one of my favorite products this season.  There's been so much buzz over the BB creams but CC creams have been on the rise as well.  I love this one because of all the ones I've tried, this one truly blends perfectly with the color of my skin.  I've been using its shade in light and it camouflages every flaw into total invisibility.  It is available in light- medium and medium-dark, and while my skin is definitely on the light end of the spectrum, I was still surprised to see it blend so perfectly to my color.  Almost as if it were made just for me. 

The formula is nice and light so it didn't feel heavy on my skin and it didn't get cakey.  It contains natural ingredients and also helps hydrate, which is important for someone like me (whose skin is on the dry side).  Many times when I apply foundations, there are small, but visible dry patches around the tip of my nose, but this helped to hydrate those areas and ultimately diminish them.  

Its made without parabens, sulfates and phtalates, and it also comes with a pleasant scent.  I can't quite put my finger on it but its somewhat citrusy and left me feeling refreshed after I applied it, which was a nice little bonus to have in the morning as I applied the rest of my makeup :)

Have you tried this product?  Have you tried any other Origins products?  Which is your favorite?

Pursue A Makeup Career at Chic Studios

  

Some professions will always be in demand, and it never hurts when they come with a little glitz and glam!  ChicStudios is NYSED- certified makeup artistry school here in New York City that offers some amazing opportunities for those considering a career as a professional makeup artist.  I discovered them last summer and have continued to have amazing new learning experiences with every visit.

I was invited to experience one of their classes where I was able to sit in and watch the students practice techniques they learned in a previous class on a live model.  Teacher Ruthie Weems was there to guide and supervise their work, while maintaining a completely comfortable atmosphere.

Chic student prepping the model

  The students showed enthusiasm and an eagerness to learn, but what I really loved with their willingness to support one another as they worked and asked questions.   

 If you're considering a career in makeup and searching for a school to pursue it, I sincerely recommend considering Chic Studios. And with that said, there couldn't be a better time then now as it launches its latest development: The 5-Week Make Up Artistry Course

Inside Chic Studios

The course will be taught by professional make up artists who have worked with celebrities like Michelle Pfeiffer and Hilary Duff; at renowned magazine publications such as Seventeen and InStyle; and for high-fashion designers like Peter Som and Karen Walker.  The course runs from October 7th to November 8th in which students will learn all the fashion- forward tools to be a professional makeup artist, including fundamentals and techniques through the various workshops, which include: Basic Makeup 101, Bridal & Business Artistry, Basic Hair Styling, Airbrush Makeup & Sunless Tanning, with the additional choice of TV and Music Video, Fashion and Runway or Period Makeup.  Graduates will be equipped to work in the beauty, fashion, retail and television industries.

Inside Chic Studios

But all this isn't even the best part.  Chic Studios is not only pulling out all the stops for an incredibly innovative new program, but its offering all of you lovely readers out there the chance to receive a $100 gift card when you mention my fabulous blog: PlushPinkAllure :D

I was incredibly flattered at their generosity and kind appreciation, so I urge all of you aspiring artists out there to take advantage!  It is $100 which you are free to put towards any upcoming program at Chic Studios, and all you have to do is mention you saw it here :)  

Teacher Ruthie Weems, Myself, and the Chic Students :)



Have you been thinking about a career as a makeup artist? 

Chic Studios:

 139 Fulton Street, Suite #600 New York, NY. 10038

 Call them at: 917-974-8755

You can also check them out on: 

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For My Curl Girls

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is for all my fellow curly haired beauties out there!  I'm super excited to share with you some news about a brand that I myself have been dying to try.  Founders Miko and Titi Branch of Miss Jessie's Hair Care are hosting an hour-long chat on Twitter tomorrow, Thursday, September 26th from 2:00pm–3:00pm EST.  They'll be sharing their hottest hair tips and answering questions on hair maintenance.  This is an incredible opportunity to pick the brains of the experts who know curly and textured hair inside and out.  Miss Jessie's Hair Care is a brand dedicated to taming and enhancing those luscious curls as well as textured hair. 

 

At the end of the chat Miko and Titi will be revealing exclusive news on the latest Miss Jessie's products which will be available for you to check out come this November. 

 

Be sure to follow them at:

 

@Miss_Jessies

And join in the chat using hashtag #askmissjessies

•  

Style360 NYFW: Debut of "Just Dance with Boy Meets Girls" Spring/Summer 2014 Collection

 

 

 

 

 

Boy Meets Girl® returned to STYLE360 New York Fashion Week earlier this month to heat up the runway yet again, this time with the premiere of the "Just Dance with Boy Meets Girl" Spring/Summer 2014 Collection!

 

 

Bringing the virtual dance floor to the runway, the spirited  fashion show was jam packed with red hot celebs like  teen heartthrob Austin Mahone who opened the show with a performance of his hit single, What About Love. His smooth dance moves and charming smile left the entire crowd pumped up and wanting more.  

 

 

 

 

Sparks flew as models danced down the runway, including actress Brittany Snow and professional tennis player Sloane Stephens, in feather-trimmed party dresses, sequin skirts, leather shorts, embellished Boy Meets Girl® trademark tees and more. The Spring/Summer 2014 collection featured the latest in technology-inspired fashion and pop culture, drawing on inspiration from the best-selling video game.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guests included sizzlin celebs like Steve Madden & Family (Fashion Designer), Estelle (Recording artist) Teresa Giudice (TV Personality), Caprice Crane (Author), Diem Brown (TV Personality), Justine Skye (Recording Artist), Carissa Rosario (Model), Melanie Iglesias (TV Personality), Lenay Dunn (TV Personality), Paula Garces (Actress), Tanisha Long (TV Personality) and more. 

 

 

 

 

My Top Fav Looks of the Night!

 

This was one of my favorite looks from the collection.  The skirt flowed gorgeously on stage and its sophisticated look was a genius contrast to the playful tank, making them the perfect compliments to each other. 

This piece was so fun and flirty!  I'm partial to the modest style, combined with both a vibrant and a neutral color.  The sleek black heels give it a sexy edge, but still has an innocent feel to it.

 

 

 

 

Give this girl some black leather and studs anytime. LOVE the Boy Meets Girl Image on soft material edged out with some rocker chic studs and leather. 

 

 

 

Did you have a favorite show of collection this NYFW?

 

 

 

 

Photos by Thomas Concordia/WireImage for STYLE360

Get the Look: 2013 Emmy Awards

Last night's 2013 Emmy Awards brought out television's brightest stars in Los Angeles, California. While everyone was dressed to the nines, we couldn't keep our eyes off of the gorgeous blonde locks flowing down the red carpet. From Clare Danes' delicate bob to Julianne Hough's voluminous waves to Anna Gunn's perfectly placed up-do, these blondes completely stole the show.

 

 

 

 

Clare Danes

 

Get the Look:

1. Apply a light mist of COLOUR FANATIC to prime and protect hair. Blow dry 50% with a round brush  
2. Apply two pumps of HIGHLIGHT STYLIST BODIFYING LUMINATOR foam and finish blowdrying with a medium round brush, keeping the root flat while rolling the ends under
3. Tuck left side behind the ear and finish with STRENGTHENING CONTROL ZERO DULLING HAIRSPRAY for long lasting shine and finish

 

 

 

 

Julianne Hough

 

 

Get the Look:

1. On dry hair, liberally mist HIGHLIGHT STYLIST SEA-KISSED TEXTURIZER 
2. Diffuse hair to enhance natural texture  
3. Wrap random pieces of hair around a one inch iron alternating direction of curls and lightly tugging on cool curls to soften waves
4. Apply a pearl size amount of HIGHLIGHT STYLIST GOLD DEFINER GEL to dry hair for a defined and tousled look

 

 

 

 

 

Anna Gunn

 

 

Get the Look:

1. On dry hair, mist FRESH APPROACH DRY SHAMPOO along root area
2. Lightly mist FRESH APPROACH DRY CONDITION on ends to enhance shine
3. Curl hair with medium iron, pin and allow to cool
4. Gently rake fingers through cooled curls
5. Gather hair in the back of the head, and create a few loose braids. 
6. Wrap and secure braids around one another creating a soft buns
7. Release random strands of hair around face and mist with STRENGTHENING CONTROL ZERO DULLING HAIRSPRAY

 

 

 

All "Get the Look steps created by: Sandra Joseph and Angela of Pureology Serious Colour care and products are available at pureology.com.

 

 

Press Release: OPI Launches Two New Designer Series

 

This fall, OPI adds DS Raw Granite, two new granite-inspired hues – DS Pewter and DS Lapis – to the Designer Series by OPI collection. Featuring a matte textured finish with mineral-like reflections,  each Designer Series Raw Granite lacquer formula offers subtle sheen with a sparkle finish.

DS Pewter, a matte textured metallic with deep silver ore, will launch simultaneously with DS Lapis, a deep sapphire blue with a textured matte finish. Designer Series by OPI offers a mosaic of 11 glistening shades and a high-shine top coat, including these two new stunning hues. DS Pewter and DS Lapis can be used without DS Top Coat to achieve an alternate matte look.

 

 

“Diamond-dust gives nails the perfect touch of glamour and can instantly transform any look. These two new shades are inspired by raw granite – the diamond’s edgy cousin – and we’re excited to broaden the range of color in the Designer Series line,” said Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director. “These lacquers incorporate rich pigments with brilliant shine, to create a bold yet elegant statement. DS Pewter and DS Lapis are the ideal high-fashion, festive accessory.”

 

 

 

Designer Series by OPI nail lacquer shades each feature OPI’s exclusive ProWide™ Brush for the ultimate in application. DS Raw Granite lacquers should be worn without top coat for a matte finish. DS Pewter and DS Lapis will be available beginning September 2013 at professional salons, including Beauty Brands, Beauty First, Chatters, Dillard’s, jcp Salons, Pure Beauty, Regis, Trade Secret, ULTA and ulta.com for $12.50 ($14.95 CAN) suggested retail for each nail lacquer.

 

 

 

Information courtesy of  BeautyPress.com

Get the Look: Redken for Christopher Kane NYFW Spring/ Summer 2014 Collection

Redken Creative Consultant Guido worked with the model's natural texture to create a simple, modern look for Christopher Kane. Prior to styling, Guido purified the model's locks with Redken's hair cleansing cream to give the hair a refreshed, clean look and feel. To maintain the natural texture of the hair, Guido worked with his hands to create the finished look, rather than brushes, combs or heat styling appliances.

 

"I kept the hair really simple, working with the natural texture and character of the girl's hair. We prepped the hair with Redken's hair cleansing cream shampoo to give it a very clean, pure quality and then let it dry naturally. Once the hair was completely dry, I added just a touch of Redken diamond oil shatterproof shine to tame any frizz and add extra shine." -Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Redken Products Used:

  

-hair cleansing cream shampoo

 

-wax blast 10 high impact finishing spray-wax

 

-diamond oil shatterproof shine

 

-powder refresh 01 aerosol hair powder/dry shampoo

 

 

 

 

 

Get the Look:

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Wash hair with hair cleansing cream shampoo and condition with clear moisture conditioner
2. Create a natural off-center part
3.  Apply wax blast 10 high impact finishing spray-wax and let hair dry naturally
4. Once the hair is dry, finish with diamond oil shatterproof shine on mid-length and ends to tame frizz and add shine
5. Finish with powder refresh 01 aerosol hair powder/dry shampoo to enhance the hair's natural texture

Information and images courtesy of Redken 
 

Review: YouthH2O Breakthrough Product of the Year

We all need a good energy boost once in a while, and for some of us (like myself) it's a daily necessity.  I suffer from low iron and aside from taking supplements and trying to eat more iron containing foods, YouthH2O, considered The Breakthrough Product of the Year, certainly proved to be a good choice product to add to my regime. 

 

Youth H20 is labeled an "Age Defying System" but has so many benefits that go beyond healthier, younger looking skin.  With an impressive list of ingredients including purple corn, organic maca and organic camu camu, it is formulated to:

 

*Provide caffeine free energy

*Vibrant Skin

*Weight Loss

*Immunity Support

*Daily Superfood Nutrition

 

 

 

 

My Experience: The 5 Day Supply

 

The kit contained five individual  2oz bottles, with directions to drink one bottle a day for five consecutive days.  I got into the routine of drinking them around the same time morning before work.  The taste is not the best but the package suggests drinking them chilled, which ended up helping. Its appearance reminded me a little of prune juice, possessing the same dark color and consistency.    

After my first serving, my body experienced a sudden surge of energy and I felt a bit anxious.  It didn't happen a second time, rather I started feeling a consistent sense of alertness, which came rather quickly after drinking it.  I am not sure how long the feeling is supposed to last or if it starts to work in conjunction with your body over time, but for a large portion of the morning I felt a sharper focus on things.  I started to wonder if I should have drank them in the afternoon.  Usually I get very sluggish come late afternoon and these would have given me that second wind.  They kept me energized through the morning, but it seemed to wane as the day wore on. 

I didn't experience anything along the lines of weight loss or change in my skin, but I think that is because five days isn't really enough time to test that.  Overall I am very satisfied with this product and actually plan to try the month long supply next.  If nothing else, it definitely had a positive effect on my energy levels.  Its contents are organic, gluten free, vegan, clinically tested, sugar free and nothing short of healthy.  It is interesting to see if this could make a difference for someone in my current position.  Stay tuned for the review on the month long supply.   

 

Celeb Event!

 

 

 

 

Come September 24th, 2013 meet youth celebrity brand ambassador Evelyn Lozada, an avid supporter and believer in the success of youthH2O.

 

Where: Duanereade at 52 14th Street & Union Square New York, New York

When: 4-6pm 

Click here to learn about Evelyn's experience!

 

 

Available at: Duanereade

 

Follow youthH20 with:

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Disclaimer: The above information is based off of my personal experience.  I am not a physician and am in no way am suggesting this a supplement for anyone with a medical condition.

Get the Look: Guido for Redken at Marc Jacobs & Calvin Klein NYFW

 

Redken Creative Consultant Guido aligned the hair this season with the youthful, carefree style of Marc's collection. Once the wigs were lightened, Guido's team went back and darkened the roots to replicate regrowth. From the color to the choppy, somewhat messy cut, this look screams youthful nonconformity at its best. 

 

"Why wigs? I suppose Marc and I really liked the uniformity that only wigs can create on the runway. This look was designed to encompass the type of free-spirited girl that Marc loves and ultimately designs for. She is somewhat punk and boyish, which is why the wig is bowl-shaped and asymmetrically cut around the face. It is almost as if she took the scissors to her own hair, completely confident and entirely in tune with her own personal style."

 

-Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

 

 

 

 

Redken Products Used:

  

- guts 10 root targeted volume spray foam

- control addict 28 high hold hairspray

- forceful 23 super strength finishing spray

 

 

Create the Look:

1. Apply guts 10 root targeted volume spray foam to dry hair from roots to ends and comb through until hair is completely saturated.
2. Divide hair into two sections (top and bottom) in the back. Make three or four parts if hair is very thick.
3. Clip the bottom section down and out of the way, and then using a finishing brush; start to brush the top section flat against the head, following the round of the head in one direction. Repeat this with each section making sure it's very clean and neat-looking when finished.
4. Blow dry hair until completely dry. Apply control addict 28 high hold hairspray and then place wig cap on so it completely covers the head.
5. Once the wig is secure, apply forceful 23 super strength finishing spray to add texture

 

 

 

Redken Creative Consultant Guido brought the model's natural texture to the forefront of his style for Calvin Klein. He took a minimalistic approach to styling, allowing the hair to revert to its natural form. Other than a bit of all soft argan-6 oil to quell frizz and flyaways, the hair was au naturale!

 

"I kept the hair very natural for Calvin Klein. After adding extensions, I trimmed the hair to give it a nice, chic length. I wanted a clean, minimalistic look, so it was important that the hair wasn't overly long. By allowing the hair's natural texture to remain in tact, the overall style is a bit raw, yet elegant."

 

-Guido, Redken Creative Consultant

 

 

 

 

 

Redken Products Used:

  

-all soft argan-6 oil

 

 

 

 

 

Create the Look:

 

1. On damp hair, create a messy off-center part
2. Add all soft argan-6 oil to hair from root to ends
3. Tuck hair behind both ears
4. Allow hair to dry naturally
5. For more frizz control, follow up on dry hair with all soft argan-6 oil from mid-lengths to ends

 

 

 

Betsey Johnson Spring/Summer 2014 Collection for NYFW

It just wouldn't be Fashion Week without the one designer who consistently sets the runway a blaze with energy.  For her Spring/Summer 2014 collection, Betsey Johnson stayed true to herself as each piece hit the catwalk emanating her unmistakable, vivacious personality.  

 

 

 

 "A soundtrack for a runway show consisting of French classic music mixed with Kanye West and Jay-Z’s newest album Holy Grail could only be suited for Betsey Johnson’s Spring Summer 2014 collection. Betsey Johnson’s models wore these fluffy pastel pink curly haired wigs that were very reminiscent of cotton candy. The hair so girly and young paired with makeup that was quite the contrast of silver metallic eye shadow all over the eye lid and a silver metal foiled lip. The two together created the look makeup artist Sarah Lucero described as “futuristic 60’s”. The skin of the models was kept very dewy and illuminated"- Beauty Press

 

 

 

 

Lead makeup artist: Sarah Lucero
Lead hairstylist: Rodney Cutler
Lead manicurist: Danielle Cadido
Makeup products used: Stila Cosmetics
Hair products used: REDKEN
Nail products used: Morgan Taylor
Skincare products used: Intraceuticals

 

Photos, quote and information courtesy of BeautyPress.com