I'm honestly not a big makeup user. On most days my routine consists of swiping on some waterproof eyeliner, and sometimes mascara if I have the time. I'm actually quite content with my skin because I rarely get pimples/zits and it's very smooth. The only negative thing about it is that I always have to lather on lotion after washing since my face gets quite dry.

But of course, no one has a perfect complexion. I thought on days when I did want to look more put together I'd want some kind of foundation. I contemplated about different powders before realizing that it would only dry out my skin more. And honestly, I wanted just a light coverage since my skin is a bit sensitive, and I really don't need that much makeup.

Then I realized that the perfect solution would be tinted moisturizer. Not only is it light and moisturizes, it contains SPF 15 for protection! So I bought Covergirl's Aqua CG Smoothers as my first bottle. And I'm in love with it! It does everything it's supposed to, and it's quick and easy to rub on right after I wash up. It evens out my skin tone without making it feel like a have layers of foundation on my face. All this for about $7.00!

If you have dry skin like mine, but are looking for something other than tinted moisturizer, they also carry the following products:

CG Smoothers All Day Hydrating Makeup


CG Smoothers AquaSmooth Compact Foundation

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I don't know how many of you have heard of the online store dubbed Bleu Dame. I actually first became exposed to it through one of the very first fashion blogs I used to read (unfortunately it's hardly updated now). They carry the "latest in designer inspired sunglasses, celebrity jewelry, gauze scarfs, hair accessories, bags & more." All of this for a budget friendly price.

I've been lusting after a pair of classic Ray Ban Wayfarers, but in a time like this I can't afford to shell out $140 for sunglasses. Luckily, Bleu Dame carrys very similar look-a-likes and in a variety of styles and colors (all for $12-$15).

And although they sell tops, I'd spend more time checking out their accessories. They have an amazing selection that'll be sure to catch the eye of every trend-conscious fashionista.

1) Foil Metallic Double Strand Braided Wrap Headband, $4.80
2) Luxe Medium Wispy Peacock Feather Earrings, $14.80
3) Black Heart 2-in-1 Mirror & Keychain, $8.80
4) Fringe Antique Print Scarf, $18.80
5) Louis Vuitton Inspired Millionaire Luxe Sunglasses, $5.00-24.80
6) Luxe Twisted Jeweled Metal & Suede Rope Bracelet, $20.80

I haven't ordered anything from here yet, but these are a few of my favorite pieces. Maybe I'll treat myself to some things off this list after I finish my midterms...

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Have you heard of the new line of shirts Forever 21 has launched? "Inspired by the cool kids of Tokyo and Paris, Shibuya Mon Amour is girly, street, punk and fashion. Live it, love it. Shibuya Mon Amour."

When I heard, I had to check them out since I love myself some graphic tees. They only have a few up at the moment, but the line consists of simple, animal illustrations on black, gray, and white tops. Another plus? The price tag; it ranges from $14 to $18. They're a great way to update your basic color tee, and would look fantastic paired with some trendy accessories.

The above three are my favorites:
1) Owl Cotton Tunic, $17.80
2) Leopard Face Tank, $13.80
3) Wing-Spread Eagle Tee, $15.80

What do you guys think of Shibuya Mon Amour?

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Although you might not be thinking of lace in a weather like this (rain, anyone else?), it definitely eases my mind about what's happening outside by shopping for some Spring clothing. Lace was blatantly evident in Diane von Furstenberg's Spring 2009 collection, and it would be a great light, feminine piece to add to your wardrobe. I'm not sure about you, but I've never been too fond of the idea of lace till I looked at some less "fruffy" versions like these:

Splurge

1) Generra Pull On Lace Skirt, $99.00
2) Diane von Furstenberg Olvida Lace Top, $164.00
3) T-Bags One Shoulder Lace Dress, $278.00

Steal

1) Floral Lace Flutter Top, $19.99
2) Lacey Chiffon Blouse, $29.50
3) Floral Lace Shift Dress, $14.99

Smidgen

1) Silence & Noise Lace Leggings, $34.00
2) Lace Skimmer, $19.99
3) UO Mesh lace Necklace, $78.00
4) Apt 9. Lace Clutch, $23.80

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I love finding new stores to check out. I recently "bumped" into Tobi, which sells popular and some upcoming designer goodies. Of course this means that I can't afford more than half of what's on this site, but that doesn't mean I can't do a bit of "window" shopping. (You can indeed find things for a steal, such as sunglasses for as little as $35, but you've gotta browse).

1) Prairie Underground Mothette Dress, $253
I'm always on the look-out for unique pieces, and this dress is definitely one. The detail and nipping make the dress ultra-feminine, but in no way would you be uncomfortable in this cotton, jersey material.
2) Toywatch Plasteramic Watch with Crystals, $295
I'm not a big watch fan, but this is so clean and simple, I'm in love!
3) Allison Daniel Chinese Knot Ring, $28
I have an addiction to gold rings, and this one even comes with an adjustable band. It would be a perfect addition to spice up my cocktail ring collection.
4) Super Shield Sunglasses, $178
These glasses give you the perfect vintage feel, but keeps modern with some gold detailing. It would be amazing to have these on hand when the weather here gets confused and acts like it's spring already.
5) Joie Abby Tunic Top, $104
Embroidered tunics are perfect to slip on when you're feeling a bit lazy. They practically accessorize your outfit for you!
6) Sam Edelman Mariella Heels, $129
I adore Sam Edelman's designs, and this is no exception. Especially with it's subtle, but glamorous faux snakeskin straps.
7) Grey Ant Cardigan Sweater, $319
Although this is way too pricey to add to my cardigan collection (only nine so far), it's still worth a look with its decorative prints and stripes.

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Just a little note, we've changed the commenting system to a better format. Unfortunately, this means that all previous comments on the old system are now deleted/not viewable to the readers. Sorry about that! But I hope everyone finds the new comment form more preferable.

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Another post filled with links to some fantastic blog posts made by other talented fashion bloggers!

We DID get some wonderful posts… a great thought provoking post from 39thandbroadway asked us if our hunger for fast fashion was causing designer burnout. Fête à Fête introduces us to Lia Lintern custom fitted luxe coats. The Coveted dishes her tips on how to keep warm in subzero tempatures (witout looking frumpy).

• 39thandbroadway.com - Why our obsession for fast fashion is causing designers to burn-out and result in less innovative wardrobe choices for you!
• Breakfast at Saks - Style vs. Comfort: What to wear when you’re traveling
• dramatis personae - Mischief-Managed Media: My So-Called Life…
• fashion forestry - Dressing like San Francisco architecture
• fashion in my eyes - For the love of shoes
• fete a fete - Lia Lintern custom fitted luxe coats!
• Hello, Lover… Shoe Daydreams - The famous SATC: The Movie “Something Blue” shoe is now not blue?
• Hollow Star - Spring fashion trends I’m most excited about
• Independent Fashion Bloggers - In the Name of the Blog
• Iwanttowearit - Kids who dress themselves will make you smile. I promise.
• Mademoiselle Robot - Getting summer wardrobe inspiration from Robert Mulligan’s The Man in the Moon.
• Nico Assatly - Accessories Junkie
• Retro Chick - Warm Chunky Knits for Work, Rest & Play
• Shopping and Info - Shopping and Info loves Nicole Richie’s Balenciaga platform black boots.
• Solo Lisa y Nada Mas - How to shop for a purse you’ll love
• Studio Purpura - Weekly Editor’s Picks - Resolution to Ladies Pesky Fashion Issues!
• Style Symmetry - Eyeliah calls skirts over dresses a trend to watch!
• Style Tabloid - Staring off the New Year with work-out resolutions? Stick to your plans with the help of some cute work-out outfits inspired by your favorite celebrities!
• Style With Anna - 20 Weird and Wacky Handbags
• THE COVETED - How to Dress for Cold Weather
• the musings of ondo lady - Ok so we had The Real OC and The Real Housewives of Orange County so make way for The Real Gossip Girls.

♥ Celeste

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I don't know if you guys remember my Secret Santa wishlist that I shared with you, but there was this black and gold clutch on there that I loved. Well, I did like the gifts that I received from my gifter, but I didn't get the clutch on there. I checked it out at the store and realized I didn't like it as much as I thought I did. But I did find seven that I fell in love with from different websites. Now if only I could choose just one...

1) Kettle Black Studded Clutch, $194.00
2) Patchwork Flap Clutch, $23.71
3) Dialog Xandra Wooden Clutch Bag, $71.10
4) Kimchi Blue Printed Clutch, $38.00
5) Linea Pelle Croco Dylan Folding Clutch, $276.00
6) Paul's Boutique Bow Clutch Bag, $32.38
7) Buckle Box Clutch, $39.50

♥ Celeste

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I remember seeing the most beautiful Dolce & Gabbana hand-painted dress on Kate Bosworth on her way to a Regis and Kelly interview. So I was excited when I saw a similiar version for much cheaper. And since we haven't featured a formal outfit yet for one of our "Chic for Cheap" posts I thought this would be a good one to start with!

Kate lets the amazing, art-work of a dress take the full attention by keeping everything minimal. The shoes are very simple black, pointy heels and she wears absolutely no jewelry. And honestly, with a dress like this you really don't need to. And since the dress is fairly covered on top, bare legs won't look trashy.

1) Belted Painted Flower Dress, $22.80
2) Lance Flex Point Patent Pump, $17.99

Total: ~$41

Compare that total to the estimated cost of Kate's D&G dress (around $2,000).

♥ Celeste

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I'm assuming many of you made New Year's resolutions. I made a maximum of three (I definitely wouldn't be able to keep more than that), and one of them included eating healthier and working out whenever I possibly could. And this happens to be one of the most popular New Year's resolutions, so I thought this post would be appropriate!

Now I don't know about you, but looking cute definitely puts me in the mood to get myself off my lazy butt and out the door. And you can even turn to your favorite Hollywood celebrities for some outfit inspiration when working out.

Even though these stars are getting shot by the paparazzi, they still keep their activewear simple, comfy and chic without being totally ridiculous and piling on a whole lot of makeup and jewelry. You might as well look cute while you're working up a sweat, but be realistic about accessories, hair, and makeup. You don't need to be wearing your cocktail ring to the gym, no matter how much you like it. Sure, you can keep your no-fuss, short necklace on, but keep in mind that you're still just working out. If you need to wear makeup stick to the basics, such as a little mascara, tinted moisturizer, and lip balm.

As simple as all these outfit seems, it looks a lot more put-together than just throwing on a baggy shirt and some shorts. Definitely feel free to switch different pieces together to get the look you want.

Walking the dog

Don't feel like doing anything too strenuous? Then replace your gym partner with your pet dog. There are going to be days when you won't feel like sticking to your resolutions, but even taking your dog for a half an hour walk will be more healthier than not doing anything at all. Since you're not going to be working up too much of a sweat, put on a comfortable, slightly-oversized sweater (it is winter after all), and some leggings (in a fun color), then slip on some warm moccasins. It's a perfect no-fuss outfit so you can keep your attention on your furry friend.

• Truly Madly Deeply Solid V-neck Tunic, $42.00
• Basic Leggings, $4.50
• Micaela Moccasins, $24.99
  

Jogging

Whether it's outside, or the gym, running is great for your health (and your legs!). This outfit is probably more preferable for the gym, since it might be a bit chilly outside. But switch the leggings for some yoga pants and you're good to go. While sticking to blacks and greys is common for workout wear, add a pop of color by wearing a bright tank underneath your basic t-shirt so it peeks out. Just because you can't wear a funky necklace doesn't mean you're not allowed some color!

• Stretch Leggings, $8.80
• V-neck Layering Cami, $8.50
• V-neck Slub Tee, $9.80
• Nike Zoom Structure Shoes, $100.00
  

Yoga and Pilates

I'm sure some of you are devoted yoga/pilates fans. The great thing about that is you're allowed a bit more freedom with your outfit choices. Start off with your basic t-shirt, and form-fitting sweats. Since you're going to be taking your shoes off anyways, feel free to wear some comfy flip-flops for easy slip-on and slip-off. And you can just stick with your normal day bag and just add your workout essentials inside. To keep warm and look chic while going to and from your yoga/pilates class, put on a scarf in a neutral color and pattern. This accessory is easy to stuff into your bag right when you get to class so there's no fuss.

• V-neck Tee, $12.50
• Girly Crop Pants, $29.50
• Oracle Cream Gauze Scarf, $7.80
• Havaianas, $20.00
• Hayden-Harnett Hobo, $44.99
  

Dance

If you think running or gym-ing is too boring, take up a dance class! It's extremely entertaining, you get to meet tons of new people, and you work out practically all parts of your body. Don't feel pressured to look super cute like you might in your school classes; everyone else will be getting sweaty too! But you can still stand out by wearing a stylish graphic tee with some colorful sneakers.

• LOVE Screen Tee, $22.50
• Zip-pocket Fleece Capris, $19.50
• Nike Dunk High iD Shoes, $125.00

♥ Celeste

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Now that the holidays are officially over, it's back to work and school. Getting up early and dragging myself out into the cold makes it harder for me to choose fashionable outfits, instead of just throwing on that old sweater. But with the help of some chic and warm accessories (and maybe a blast from the heater) it makes changing out of my pj's a whole lot easier.

I've already mentioned scarfs about a hundred times in this blog, so I think I'll stop. And although that's my first choice of cold-weather accessories, I've become attached to another. Gloves. I know some of you may wear them, but I honestly haven't worn them since elementary school. Maybe it's the fact that I never thought they were that cute and also count in the fact that I ride my bike around campus (which equals freezing fingers), I'm definitely shopping around for a pair this weekend! And not only are they a whole lot prettier than I remember, they're inexpensive which is always a plus in my book!

1) Birdseye Convertible Glove, $16.99
2) Full Length Ribbed Gloves, $6.80
3) Striped Knit Gloves, $5.80
4) Striped Angora Gloves, $8.82
5) Cherie Flower Glove, $12.50
6) Marled Shearling Mitten, $(website isn't loading for me for some reason).

♥ Celeste

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