No longer is sexy just about T&A, or even W&H (waist and hips) as Nasty Gal founder Sophia likes to point out as her cool girl secret to styling. It is all about the midriff. A little peak a boo of skin right above the bell button and below the bust line. The wonderful thing about highlighting this section is that it is pretty much universally flattering on all women and body types. By keeping your boobs and belly covered, you actually come off as a class act with a little fashion forward fierceness! I gave the trend a try with my John Patrick Organic cropped sweater by pairing it with a high waisted skirt I picked up from All Saints ages and ages ago when I was a student in London. Flat sneakers and a cropped leather jacket (made from upcycled leather by The Sway NYC) finish off my street style ready look. How are you rocking this trend?
Eco-Outfit: Modern Minimalist Look styled by The Glamourai
As I’ve gotten older (and grown into my own skin and sense of self) I find there are fewer things I actually need, and that just a few key pieces- with incredible yet subtle design elements- make for some of the best wardrobe staples to carry me effortlessly through seasons and styles. I was lucky enough to collaborate with Kelly Framel fromTheGlamourai.com on an editorial shoot a couple of weeks ago. Kelly brought that artistic simplicity in front of the lens of the talented Scott Brasher who captured this modern minimalism that rings true as part of my personal style. We pulled pieces from NYC-based designers leading the way in style and sustainability. You can check out the full editorial on Kelly’s site, and shop the shoot below.
1. CLAW & AQUA NECKLACE, by Natalie Frigo, $195. A handmade gem made in New York City from reclaimed brass and ethically sourced stones. A long pendulum necklace like this is an absolute must-have for completing an outfit with long lines.
2. OVERSIZED T-SHIRT, Suzanne Rae, $330 (similar to the one from the shoot). Proudly made in the Garment District of NYC from natural fibers. Fashion this piece as a top, dress or stylish layer.
3. CARRINGTON LOAFERS, Cri de Coeur x Arden Wohl, $320. An easy slip-on shoe with designer details like the watchful ‘evil eye’ at the back plus the ombre lucite heel. 100% vegan and fashion forward!
4.ELONGATED RECTANGLES, by Natalie Frigo, $210. Lovingly made in NYC from reclaimed brass and Idaho garnets. Statement earrings that grab your attention in all the right ways.
(PHOTOGRAPHY| by Scott Brasher |STYLING| byKelly Framel |EDITORIAL ASSISTANCE| by Erin Framel |HAIR + MAKEUP| by Alice An |SHOT ON LOCATION| at The William Hotel)
Day & Night Power Players for Perfect Skin
I’ve been searching for the perfect product pairing to help even my complexion, provide ample moisture, and offer effective protection from harsh environmental factors (like sun and pollution). Luckily, at a beauty event last night in NYC, I ran in to the eco beauty queen, Kristen Arnett from Green Beauty Team. She was sweet enough to let me pick her brain about products and ingredients, and between the two of us, I think I may have pinned down the best pure products to use in my night and day regimen. Want to join me in my quest for glowing healthy skin? Here’s the hit list:
NIGHT
1. PUMPKIN SEED NIGHT SERUM, Om Aroma, $58. This awesome serum came as a recommendation by Kristen. This organic face oil renews the skin through cellular regeneration and provides intensive repair treatment with Fatty Acids and Vitamins A, C, E, Zinc. Plus it includes rose hips seed oil, which has been shown to reverse scar and sun damage, while diminishing the appearance of wrinkles. Apply an even layer after washing and pat drying your face.
2. THE SOLUTION, Arcona, $45. Reverse signs of photo-aging, smooth fine lines and clear acne-prone skin with amino sugars and glycoproteins. Layer this nighttime treatment over the pumpkin serum for added moisture and to help clarify acne-prone or combination skin.
DAY
1. ORGANIC NOURISHING TREATMENT OIL, Dr, Alkaitis, $80. Kristen suggests that after your morning cleanse, apply this super oil to clean damp skin to help seal in moisture. This antioxidant rich oil helps create a layer of skin defenders who fight environmental pollutants. You can use it on your hair and body too!
2. SPF 30 TINTED MINERAL MOISTURIZER, Juice Beauty, $29. This 4-in-one hydrator blends chemical-free SPF 30, minerals for coverage, and antioxidant rich grape and aloe for a radiant, protected, even-toned complexion. A Daily Essential for all skin types. I’ve used this product before and it helps you keep a dewy complexion so is perfect for spring and summer (tho does not really mattify, so if you are going for that I would suggest you use powder to help set everything). This is one of the rare SPF moisturizers that does NOT contain Titanium Dioxide and still offers protection with a touch of color to even out your skin.