Posts tagged summer

Summer Trends Contest!

Comment below with your favorite summer 2010 trends & enter to win 1 of 3  tarte glam gams natural bronzing leg sticks !

Lilac Lids!

Summer is the perfect time of year to lighten up and have fun with your beauty routine. However, straying from your neutrals and incorporating color can be a bit scary. That’s why I’d suggest you start simple and try lilac. This ultra-girly hue compliments all eye shades, brightens the whites of your eyes and even neutralizes any yellowness in the lids. Not to mention you’ll be on trend—the Spring & Resort Runway Shows featured lots of lilac-brushed lids.

Sure, maybe here at tarte we’re a bit biased to our signature color, but what’s not to love?! All of the looks above are a bit romantic, appear effortless in the day against sunkissed skin & can carry you into the night with some added eyeliner. I especially love the way the shadow is swept along the bottom lash line. Achieving this look is quite easy. You can use a powder and wet your shadow brush to get a more concentrated pigment on the lid and then lightly highlight the brow bone. Keep in mind the summer time poses a challenge, think sticky heat and sweat: gross. So, I personally opt for lock & roll 12-hour eyeshadow in amethyst. This cream/powder double-ended wand is 100% budge-proof and creaseproof;  I promise your shadow won’t be migrating anywhere (even if you take a plunge in the pool). Simply swipe the cream along your lid and, if you like, under your lash line. Using the loose powder side, set the cream by using the rollerball applicator and sweep the powder up onto your brow bone. If you need to blend go ahead and use your fingers. Top with a coat of jet black, waterproof mascara!

So ladies, while your out celebrating the Fourth of July this weekend, let’s all have a little fun with lilac.

xo,

Kristin

Summer 2010 Beauty!

Technically summer doesn’t officially start until June 21st, but as far as we’re concerned Memorial Day marks the kick-off to the season. I’m sure you’ve stocked up on at least one new swimsuit, caftan or pair of wedges, but what we really want to know are your go-to summer beauty products?  Sunscreen and sun safety products are an obvious given, but I wanted to share with you some other goodies I’ll be tossing in my beach bag for the perfect, no-fuss, natural beauty look.

When it comes to summer makeup less is more. I love focusing on my lashes & lips. All I’m really looking for is simplicity and staying power.  So it’s a no brainer that my summer choices are multiplEYE™ natural lash-enhancing waterproof mascara & LipSurgence™ natural lip stain in charmed. Luscious lashes and bubblegum pink lips are perfect against sunkissed skin.

Next up are my tresses. When temperatures are crawling into the 90’s the last thing I want to do is sweat under the blow dryer; just the thought makes me cringe. Well, thanks to Fredrick Fekkai’s  Marine Summer Hair, I’ll see my styling tools in September. This misting spray will give you surf-sexy waves, while protecting your hair against the sun, salt water & chlorine. It’s effortless & I love that!

Last but not least, my pick for the perfect summer lacquer to go with all of those open-toe shoes. It’s all about CHANEL’s minty fresh summer shade Nouvelle Vague. Fresh for 2010, this is the ideal summer escape from your traditional pinks and corals. I’m heading for a mani/pedi in this shade tonight to last me through the holiday weekend.

So that’s it for summer-perfect products that are chic & easy.

Xo,

Kristin

Fly in July Lust List


My Darling Summer,
Why must you always speed by so quickly? I was just getting into the groove of bare skin and bright sun when BAM! Hello, July! So please slow motion for me so that I can enjoy the sweet kiss of your lazy lull for just a few moments more. And to show just how appreciative I am of your new more leisurely pace, I am compiling a Lust List so sartorially sinful that the other seasons will be envious all year long.

1. Mesi Jilly rings
As a little girl, I was team Belle all the way, never Ariel. I mean, I respected the mermaid’s dedication to the super-studly Prince Eric, but I just felt a connection with Belle that continues on today—the raven locks, the love of reading, and most of all being a magnet for the bad boy. But after discovering the ridiculously gorgeous rings by
Mesi Jilly at Amira in Miami’s Gansevoort Hotel, I was singing “Under the Sea” at the top of my lungs. These jewels are real-life buried treasure, combining the natural beauty of shell and coral with the glitzy addition of semi-precious stones and gold. And after seeing my style icon, the Ravishing Rachel Roy rocking Mesi Jilly, there was no turning back. Sebastian, can ya hear me?

2. Smoky Eye&Nude Lip
Nothing says naughty and nice quite like the combination of a devilishly dark smoky eye and a basically bare nude pout. Though you may be scared to tackle such conflicting sides of the cosmetics continuum, have no fear, tarte is here!
indelible wink is a two-for-one product with liquid liner on one end and the matching shadow, which sets the liner so it won’t budge or smudge all day long, on the other. I suggest black for all-out smoky seduction or the more subtle charcoal for a friendlier fire. As for your nude smacker, you must get the double-ended lipgloss in fred & ginger (how cute!). Fred is a rich caramel that gives your pout a natural gloss, while the golden Ginger brings the glitz and glamour.

3. July Jaunting
Whether you’re hitting the beaches of the South of France or the cultural cities of the Southeastern coast, get somewhere before summer comes to a screeching halt. With the endless number of “getyourcheapestflightwithus” websites, there is no excuse for being on self-imposed house arrest. I am beyond ecstatic to be jetsetting to Martha’s Vineyard at the end of August. I can’t wait to break out my seersucker and pastels for one last preppy party. Salty Dog Café, I’m coming for you! So get like me and make your vacation vows before school is no longer out for summer.

4. Peplum Skirts
This flouncy style harkens back to the days when I would put on my twirly skirt and bop to “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” till my 5-year-old body gave out. Well, fast-forward sixteen years and I still have a thing for the flirtiness of the twirl. But peplum is a more mature style that incorporates that adorable ruffle with the sleek sophistication of a slim skirt. Celeb stylistas like HP’s Emma Watson, the uber-chic Nicole Richie and her fierceness Fergie have been rocking this trend all summer long. FemmeFab designers Betsey Johnson and Tracey Reese have some totally ToDieFor looks. For the recessionally reasonable, Brit hotspot
Topshop has a wide range of fabulous dress and skirt styles. Talk about a plethora of peplum!

5. Torn by Ronny Kobo
If you don’t know about the sexy stylings of Israeli-born, Hong-Kong raised Ronny Kobo, get to Shopbopping, NatlJeanCo’in or something! I discovered Kobo’s line back in March and loved it so much, I not only blogged, but also bought. There was something about the simple silhouettes, form-fitting fabrics and decadent designs that I just found irresistible. Well, the latest looks from Torn are just as tantalizing as Spring’s. I am obsessing over the One-shoulder Minidress in light heather grey because it is so subtly sexy. I’m thinking embellished flats for day and my haute pink pumps for night. I also L-O-V-E the Maryanne tank in leopard-print. The single-shoulder ruffle is such a funky take on the current trend. This top would work just as chicly paired with your slimmest jeans or under a structured blazer. Whichever style you gravitate towards, get Torn-up, Kobo-style!

XO,
Amelia

Clutch Play

Though “schooooool’s out for sum-mer,” I have one more teensy, weensy style lesson you must learn before fully embracing summer’s warm, sticky goodness.
Like shoes, bags should change with the seasons. Winter= oversized and dark. Summer=petite and bright. During the months of pool-lounging and burger-grubbing, do you really want to be purse-lugging? Nope, didn’t think so. Tartelettes, put away those beastly, black bags and get to looking for a chic, colorful clutch.

Some of my faves:
Marc Jacobs “Love Story” Clutch is truly a lesson in romance with its layers upon layers of leathery hearts. After reading of my devotion for the Juicy Couture heart bracelet, I know you’re thinking, “Hmmm…sounds like somebody like likes that heart motif.” Well, I confess, tartelettes. I have discovered yet another heart-themed piece that gets my thumper racing.

Industry Cross Stitch Clutch Though a devoted Notre Domer, I don’t just adore this style because it showcases the colors of my beloved alma mater. More importantly, it boasts some simple, yet funkdafied details like that over&odd-sized button and its triple cross stitch.
Genevieve Jones Shagreen Clutch From the moment I saw her tiny little frame in totally ToDieFor designer duds, I was hooked on Ms. Jones. Her recently launched accessories line is making me L-O-V-E her even more. Made of ultra-lux stingray, the Shagreen Clutch is the perfect purse for bringing a simple summer ‘fit to a whole other level of chicness. The fringey tassel emblazoned with Gene’s monogram logo is a little unexpected and off-beat, just like her enviable sense of style.
Kimchi Blue Tie-Dye Clutch Though dipped in the darkest dye, this piece is anything but doom&gloom. Instead it’s rocker-chic. Say Nicole Richie, Vanessa Hudgens? I’m imagining this paired with some distressed boyfriends and a wifebeater tank for the perfect “who the hell” cares ensemble. And its roomy shape is big enough for loads of tarte products, including the 3-in-1 Infinite Glow palette, complete with color for every inch of the face.
Tory Burch’s T Clutch There is little in the world that I love more than Tory Burch. She is the Picasso of Purses, the Amstel of Accessories…shall I go on? So imagine my delight when I stumbled on her latest little masterpiece? The hues of blue are phenomenal. The mix of leather and canvas is cheeky. The oversized “T” identifying yet another BurchBeauty is confident, not cocky. This clutch is Tor-turously chic.

Ok, style students, I have given you a list of summer satchels that covers every price range, but most importantly offers styles that are simply irresistible. So take a break from the sunning and get to shopping!

Weekend Essentials!

Whip out your favorite carry-all the official kick-off to summer has arrived (finally) and hopefully you’re skipping town for a few days! Wherever this Memorial Day Weekend takes you it’s all about laid back fun with friends, family and all the little things that remind you it’s summer! That said pack light and remember the essentials for a good time.
Some goodies that will definitely find their way into my weekender is a fun, printed towel for the pool/beach (I like this blue sundial one from Pottery Barn), a chic pair of retro shades to protect my eyes (I’m loving this fun salmon pair by Chloe) and cute comfy sandals (add these YSL’s to the lust list). Also a must: outdoor games! The contraption you see above is Ladder Golf—it even folds up for travel. It’s similar to horseshoes. You play on teams and throw the “bolas” (2 golf balls attached by rope) at the ladder and aim to get them to wrap themselves around the rungs for points! Check out the technical rules on laddergolf.com, but I promise it’s addicting and everyone at your sioree will have a blast playing.
So wherever the wind blows you this weekend have fun and safe travels!
xo
Kristin

Island Getaway Getup

So as January goes, it’s a snowy, slushy day in NYC. All I could think about, as I tried to avoid nasty puddles on my way to the office, were hot temperatures, palm trees and resort wear. Ahhh yes, resort wear. That leads me to today’s fashion fantasy. Check out this new dress from Matthew Williamson’s collection. I know it will NEVER hang in my wardrobe, but can’t a girl dream? This sun-drenched maxi is nothing but feel-good fashion and I just adore the details! This is just one of those items that make me smile. If I had this on now, I think even NYC would feel a little like paradise. Don’t you think?

-Kristin

Wishing for Summer

05/09/07
~Everyone warned me about the post-wedding blues that set in after the wedding and honeymoon are over. I have to say, I’m not feeling them – probably because I was a total stress ball the week before the wedding – what with trying to finish everything I needed to do for work for the 2.5 weeks I was out of the office and assembling 100 favors 3 days before. Oh and I almost forgot the debacle with my dress not fitting correctly the week of the bid day! So I can safely say that what I feel most is relief that I can watch tv without thinking there is something else I should be doing and that I can eat a cheeseburger without thinking about fitting into a dress!! Plus I’ve begun an apartment search so that will pretty much keep me busy well into the summer. Summer… that’s another great thing to look forward to! -heather

july 2006

07/20/06

~I know I’m probably late to read this, but I just finished The Kite Runner. It was beautifully written and just such a compelling story. I’ll admit I cried a few times throughout the book—just so sad. After finishing such a good book it’s tough to figure out the next read. I stopped in McNally Robinson bookstore to browse and just couldn’t decide—I’m debating on “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” “The Secret Life of Bees,” or “My Sister’s Keeper.” If anyone has read a great non-fiction book or a sappy love story (I’m a sucker for those), please send recommendations!!! Thanks! -candace

07/17/06

~I am so excited, my favorite show Project Runway is back! Although I’m kind of nervous too…because can anything really stack up against Santino & Andrae? I’m hoping this season is just as good as last…but if not, thanks to the good people of YouTube, I can always go back and revisit my favorites! -alexis

 
07/11/06

~Sunday was completely insane, in a good way! It was the World Cup final, Italy v France and Italy won! Every Italian neighborhood in the area exploded – streets were shut down, impromptu parades broke out – literally every car, building, street pole, parking meter…EVERYTHING was red, white and green. Someone even painted their dog, which was kinda sad but still really cute and funny. There was screaming, chanting and blaring horns from the second the last penalty kick was scored to midnight. It was a great celebration, definitely one I will never forget and will always be thankful that I got to be a part of. Forza Azzurri! -maria

june 2006

07/03/06

~This week I’m heading to San Francisco to visit my best friend (we grew up playing soccer together in Mass). We’re planning a run across the Golden Gate Bridge, mini-shopping escapades and a chill time on the beach. I’m really excited about this trip! Another one of my newly engaged friends, who lives in Boston, is meeting me there. It’s going to be such a fun girl’s weekend!! We’re even driving to Tahoe for the Fourth! If only Greg could join me for the fireworks…now that would be perfect! -candace

06/26/06

~I had found this recipe for caramel apple wedding cake (in Martha Stewart Weddings) that I really wanted to try, but before I gave the recipe to the caterer I wanted to taste it myself. Because Erica is the best girl in the whole world, she actually spent time this weekend baking me a sample wedding cake. (This is no small task…it involved a meringue and a custard and a buttercream and all kinds of other things like candy thermometers). She brought it in today and it’s divine. Possibly because she made it. All hail Erica, queen of baking and everything arts-related!! -alexis

06/19/06

~So Saturday I’m all excited because I finally have time to install my new Sirius satellite radio in my car (QVC TSV!) when all of a sudden I hear screaming and a horn blaring the whole way up my block. Without looking up, I already know its my brother and when I finally do look up, I’m not at all surprised to see that he’s tethered a 5 foot long Italian flag to his car. Ahh, you gotta love World Cup Soccer! Saturday’s game – Italy v USA – was awesome; I was a little torn at first because my heart is to cheer for Italy but I didn’t really want the US to lose. Well the game ended in a tie so I guess things worked out for me! -maria

06/14/06 Congrats Heather & John!

~Since I got engaged exactly 6 days ago, I’ve been in wedding overdrive! I’ve been to Barnes & Noble 4 times (for various wedding planners and magazines), I’ve visited at least 100 websites and have been on the phone non-stop with reception venues, my mom and my fiance (that sounds weird!) (though I’m trying to keep him out of it as much as possible!). But I feel good because I’m visiting 4 places this weekend and hope to get something booked right away! The next 10 months will be crazy!! Unless we do what John wants – elope -haha! -heather

06/13/06

~So a few weeks ago a friend of mine asked me if I wanted to form a team with her & her friend and submit applications for this game show she heard about. I submitted the application and my picture and totally forgot the whole thing. Lo and behold, they actually want us to audition this week!!! It’s called Chain Reaction and it’s actually a remake of an old game that was on NBC in 1980. My friends and I have been emailing each other practice puzzles…but keep your fingers crossed that I get on, because maybe I can actually make some wedding money back! (Plus how cool, a tartelette on Tv!) -alexis

06/07/06

~So, I must admit I have a peanut butter addiction. I was shopping at Gourmet Garage last week and I came across Peanut Butter & Co Cinnamon Raisin Swirl. OMG—this is seriously the best stuff ever! How ingenious—“a breakfast blend of peanut butter with swirls of aromatic cinnamon and raisins”! I’m truly addicted. And the best part—I just found out that there is a Peanut Butter & Co. store near my apartment! Next on my list: the Dark Chocolate Dreams….YUM! -candace

06/06/06

~Last week we got a delicious treat. One of the vendors I work with sent us a Godiva Cheesecake and a Cookies and Cream from the Cheesecake Factory! If there’s one thing the tarte girls love, it’s the Cheesecake Factory! Being the chocoholic that I am, the Godiva cheesecake is my favorite. Flourless chocolate cake and chocolate cheesecake, what could be better! -nicole