Green shoes make the sun shine

The skies were grey on Sunday morning, so I grabbed my purple umbrella, and hoped they would make for good pictures later. But the sun came out instead. I'll have to save the "rain, rain, go away" shots for another day.

What I'm Wearing:

• Ruffle top by WILLI SMITH - hand-me-down
• Pencil skirt by UNITED COLORS OF BENETTON - gift
• Shoes by CAMI - hand-me-down
• Collar necklace - refashioned by me
• Bracelet - gift

The collar necklace I'm wearing was actually the neckline of an otherwise drab and unshapely grey teeshirt. I thought it was too good to go to waste, so I cut it off. I don't think the fabric collar necklace trend is quite so hot as it was, but it's fun to have something a little less traditional to accessorize with! 

I stole these shoes from a dear friend in Nebraska. I was staying with her before her wedding last November, and saw them on her bedroom floor. She was going to send them away to Goodwill, but I smuggled them home in my suitcase instead.

Ok, it wasn't quite that exciting. She gave me permission.

Do you have any clothes or accessories that you've "stolen" from a friend or smuggled home? Do share! :)

-Amanda

Photos by Lydia Flynn

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Stand By Me

If the sky that we look upon 

Should tumble and fall 

Or the mountains should crumble to the sea 

I won't cry, I won't cry 

No, I won't shed a tear 

Just as long as you stand

Stand by me

I realize (only because I've been taking weekly pictures) that I have been wearing too much blue and stripes lately. There's always been a lot of blue in my wardrobe, but not so many striped pieces until recently, when I found some that I really liked. But I definitely need to break it up and wear a different, cheerier color next week!

What I'm Wearing:

• Maxi Dress by P.INC MATERNITY - thrifted
• Jacket - hand-me-down
• Belt - Kohl's
• Shoes by KELLY & KATIE - thrifted
• Necklace and Earrings - AmandaBeth
• Bracelet - gift

    

I found this maxi dress at my favorite local thrift store, and almost didn't buy it because it was a maternity dress, and looked enormous on me in the dressing room. But the fabric was so soft, and it was only a few dollars... so I brought it home. I'm so glad, because a wide belt solved the preggo-dress dilemma. I absolutely love it.

I'm wearing my current favorite nail polish shade again (Lightning by L.A. COLORS) - it makes me happy! - and the coral sandals I wanted to break out last week. This Sunday was finally warm enough to wear them (it's been a beautiful week). I got them for $3.50 at Saver's, and love them to bits, although they are might just be my 2nd most painful pair of shoes (a bit on the snug side).

I also got to try Mary Kay's True Dimensions lipstick (in "Wild About Pink!") for the first time, and I really like it. My lips have a lot of natural color, so I don't usually wear lipstick, but lately (it must be spring) I've been craving a cheery pop of color. This one satisfied the craving.

FYI, my recent outfit posts have all been "Sunday" looks, since that's the only regular time I'm dressed up a bit (being a nanny usually has me in jeans, a tee shirt, and sneakers). So feel free to post your own look from the past week in the comments... I love to see what everyone is wearing! :)

Have a beautiful weekend!

-Amanda

Photos by Lydia Flynn

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Best of the 84th Academy Awards Red Carpet

Picking my favorites from the red carpet at the Oscars this year was surprisingly easy. There were a handful of truly stunning gowns, a lot of mediocre, and very few fashion "misses."Just after watching the red carpet I was able to name my top four looks, without spending the next day agonizing over photographs and trying to narrow it down. I wish every awards show was this easy!

As far as trends go, there was lots of sparkle: beading, sequins and elegant embroidery. Many actresses wore white, looking gorgeous and sophisticated, and various blush/neutral/nude shades were also popular. Most beauty looks were refreshingly natural, with soft makeup and relaxed hair, and jewelry seemed very minimalistic compared to recent years. 

There were a couple of fashion disappointments for me on Sunday evening. I really, really didn't like the gown Viola Davis choose. The color didn't flatter her, and the fabric and seams looked a little strange. And while I am fan of Viola forgoing a wig and showcasing her own short hair, I think that the red/brown shade is wrong for her skin tone. So sorry, Viola! You know I adore you and wanted you to win!

Bérénice Bejo was a similar story. I did not like her dress, and thought the pale minty green color was terrible for her. And, like Viola, I think she needs to go back to a darker hair color. The red/brown hair and makeup looks she's been sporting recently do no suit her. 

That said, here's my picks for the best dressed women on Sunday evening...

Jessica Chastain in Alexander McQueen 

This whole look just blew me away. If I had to pick a favorite, Jessica would be it! The black of the dress set off both the incredible gold embroidery and her beautiful skin. Rarely have I seen a gown that has such perfect fit. It looked superb from every angle. The hem hit right where it should, and the train was stunning. I also loved Jessica's golden dewdrop earrings, and her soft, tumbling hairstyle. I don't always like "casual" hair with an elegant dress, but this just works.

Milla Jovovich in Elie Saab 

Talk about old-time hollywood glamour! This gown caught my eye immediately. The fit and drape were gorgeous, as were the thousands of softly muted sequins. (And I've always been a big fan of one-shoulder designs!) Milla's hair and makeup were very retro, while still remaining sleek and modern, and I loved her jewelry and clutch choices. The beaded cuff on her wrist was a work of art.

Octavia Spencer in Tadashi Shoji 

Another one of my favorite ladies from The Help made me very happy on Sunday night. Octavia looked fantastic all through the awards season, but she definitely saved the best for last. She's been faithful to Tadashi Shoji at every major event, and with good reason. This gown was immaculate, from the beading to the draping to the silhouette. I've seen many similar style gowns completely miss the mark, but this dress was so flattering and just perfect. She deserves a fashion statuette along with her Best Supporting Actress award.

Michelle Williams in Louis Vuitton 

Michelle Williams has been one of the most beautifully dressed actresses of the year, and while this gown was very different from the one she wore to the Golden Globes, it was equally stunning. I loved the coral color. It's rather an uncommon red carpet choice, but it worked perfectly with her skin tone, soft makeup, and simple jewelry. My only (tiny) complaint was that there are a lot of little details happening on the dress, but the silhouette and fit are perfect for her.

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So, those are my picks of the evening! Do you agree with my selection? Who were you favorites? (And who do you think made the horrible "Worst Dressed" list?)

I hope you all have a lovely week. I'll be busy with rehearsals for Annie, and shows this coming weekend, but I'll see you all afterwards! God bless.

-Amanda

Images: Just Jared

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Fashion Favorites from the 2012 Golden Globes

Another year, another red carpet, more fabulous gowns to admire, and more fashion mistakes to shudder over. The journey to the Oscars is getting more intense, now that the 2012 Golden Globes are over, and I've got the fashion scoop for you. As always, I do not recommend this awards show. (There's an unfortunate amount of immodesty and inappropriate jokes.) But I do love browsing the photos of those highest of high-fashion looks, and passing out praise or judgement on the good and the bad.

I didn't pay a whole lot of attention to the trends this year, but a few things stood out. Pale neutral shades were abundant, as well as navy blue. Red continues to be a standard, and there were a few brave women in bright, almost neon, yellow. Fitted "mermaid" and "fishtail" gowns continue to be popular, as well an abundance of simple, a-line silhouettes, and a few surprisingly poofy skirts.

Here are my top four looks of the evening. These are the ones that stood out, had a more conservative and/or modest bend, and were just plain pretty. There were loads of other gorgeous dresses I wanted to include, and I do have some honorable mentions, but I'm going to restrain myself and just share these four. ;)

 

Bérénice Bejo in  Gucci Première

It's so nice to have a fresh, new face on the awards scene, and Bérénice brings a lovely smile and a lovely dress. This gown is slightly deceiving... at first glance it appears very simple, but on closer inspection, it is a masterpiece of pleats, draping, and godets. I love the hemline and the detail at the waist. While I think a bold necklace would have finished off this ensemble just right, the simplicity of the look is charming, and the delicate earrings are lovely.

 

Jessica Chastain in Givenchy

This lady has got the poise of a modern-day Grace Kelly, and I think her dress was just a fantastic choice for this event. The pale shade complements her ivory skin-tone and gorgeous red hair, and the millions of tiny pearls add to the graceful and lady-like look. I'm even digging the oversized vintage-y earrings! This design is a tricky one to pull off, but it looks like Jessica was born to wear this dress.

 

Angelina Jolie in Atelier Versace

I'll admit right now that I am not an Angelina fan and usually am not crazy about her fashion choices.  That's why this gown was a pleasant surprise. Its strength is in its simplicity, and enhances Angelina's grecian goddess persona. The striking fold of red at the shoulder is eye-catching, and matches perfectly with the clutch, and her lipstick. The only thing I'm not so crazy about is the slit up the front (which you can't see here)... but the asymmetrical back (one-shoulder strap) is my favorite. And minimal jewelry was definitely the right choice.

 

Michelle Williams in Jason Wu

This woman not only won the top award at the ceremony, but is my pick for "Best Dressed." Michelle is known for unusual fashion choices, and often I don't like them, but I think she hit this one out of the park. The gown's fit is flawless and the dark blue/purple shade and velvety texture highlights her fair complexion perfectly. I think the simple stud earrings were a brilliant choice and I love the headband. It adds flair to her already amazing pixie-cut. Definitely a perfect and complete look, from head to toe.

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Mmm... it's been a while since I posted some red carpet fashion (I was so fed up with the Oscar fashion last year that I didn't even cover it), and I'm looking forward to seeing more as the events continue. Were there any ensembles on the red carpet that you especially loved? Did I miss your favorite? Please share!

-Amanda

Images: Zimbio

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hush - lovely layers

Here in Massachusetts we've had an unusually mild fall (except for the freak snowstorm before Halloween, of course), but now the chill is finally starting to set in. I find myself thinking far too much about turning up the heat, and dream of cozy things to wear... sweaters, hats, mittens, scarves, leg warmers, and more. There's nothing like soft and comfy layers to keep out the chill, and when I stumbled across this collection by hush, I pretty much fell headfirst. 

These looks are some of the prettiest things I've seen in a long time, and I'd love nothing more than to have the entire line at my disposal. I used to think that fashion and discomfort walked hand in hand, and this is sometimes true (hello, skyscraper high heels!), but it is also possible to be relaxed and comfortable without sacrificing style.

For years I've worn leggings under skirts and dresses during the winter (along with tights, which I love), and I still think there's nothing more comfy, casual and stylish than some leggings with a long top (or a short dress) and a pair of boots.

Sweaters are one of my favorite things, and hard for me to resist. (This year I forced myself to discard a few of the dozen or so that I've collected. For the record, 95% of them were given to me. ;) I think that sweaters are the perfect way to make an outfit cozy, whether it's a casual shirt and pants or a little black dress with high heels. Soft, draping sweaters are feminine, romantic, and so practical. 

I remember disliking wearing scarves as a kid, but now I think they're one of the best things to take away the chill, indoors as well as out. Nobody wants to wear turtleneck sweaters 24/7, and a scarf can fill in a lower neckline and keep you from freezing. And I've heard that the "you that know you lose like 80% of your body heat through your head" statement is a myth, but there's no denying that a hat goes a long, long way to keeping you warm. Just try it.

Lastly, some nice pajamas can definitely contribute to making the season merry and bright... whether you're just lounging around, reading books and sipping cocoa, or opening presents on Christmas morning. And when you're down with an awful cold and in bed for the greater part of five days (yes, that's me - I got it bad this time), comfort is really, really important.

For more hush eye candy, go visit their site. Or click the images in this post to view the items in more detail. Honestly, I could spend a couple of hours just browsing. Definitely putting thus collection on my wish list. ;)

-Amanda

Images: hush

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Oh, the fabulous Flexi-8! (Hair styling secrets and a giveaway!)

I am always on the lookout for great new fashion and style solutions.
Well, I think I've hit on possibly the best one of the year. :)

Styling my hair can be lots of fun, but also a frequent pain. Many days I just want to get it up and out of my face, but am wishing for a stylish alternative to a plain ponytail or an ugly plastic claw-clip. Of course, there are lots of lovely hair accessories floating around the various shops and stores, but how many of them are truly comfortable, practical, and pretty?

Say "hello" to the Flexi-8!!!

I was given the fabulous opportunity to try out this relatively "unheard of" product and review it for all of you here at AmandaBeth. At first, I was a bit of a skeptic. ("Ok, let's see if these things are really as great as they say they are." ;) But when the package arrived and I finally held the five, extremely well-made, gorgeously designed, flexible clips, I was pretty excited. Five minutes later and my mom was as thrilled as I was. Since then, it's just been a downward spiral of wearing a Flexi-8 in my hair almost every day, styling my siblings hair with them, lending one to the out-of-the-house sis, and bragging about them to my friends and family.

Honest-to-goodness, I love the Flexi-8 (and not just because they sent me some to review ;).

My favorite way to wear the Flexi-8 is in a demi-french-twist. A small size holds my hair firmly in place all day (no sliding! yay! :) and stays comfortably flat against the back of my head. You know how those plastic claw clips always dig into your head when you lean against something (or keep your head pushed away from the seat of the car)? Ugh. Or how the little claws love to snap off if you collapse on the couch too suddenly? Bleh.

No more. :)

I also love the variety of sizes and how many different styles they allow you to achieve. Be sure to check out the helpful style videos for more ideas!

Special discount for AmandaBeth readers - and a giveaway!

Do you want to have some Flexi-8s of your own? How about Christmas gifts (it's September already, people! It's coming fast!) for your sisters, friends, nieces, or cousins? Well if you use the exclusive coupon code 543626 when making a purchase at www.flexi8.com, you can get 10% off your order, or buy 4 Flexi-8s and receive the 5th one free. Not a bad deal, huh? :)

If you'd like a chance to win two Flexi-8s of your own, you can enter my giveaway! Please read the instructions carefully to make sure your entry is valid!

Mandatory Entry

Go to the Flexi-8 site and watch the sizing video to determine what size you are. (This is important! I  would have guessed my own size incorrectly.) Then share in your comment why you are that size and which design/style in your size is your favorite. Also include a way of contacting you (email/blog url/other) if you win. I must be able to contact and hear back from the winner within 48 hrs of the close of the contest in order for them to redeem their prize.

For Additional Entries (after completing the Mandatory Entry)

Follow the blog, AmandaBFly on Twitter, Amanda Flynn on Tumblr, or become a fan of AmandaBeth on Facebook - 1 entry for each
Post about the giveaway (on your blog, Facebook, Tumblr, Twitter, et cetera - include the link in your comment!) - 2 entries for each

This giveaway is only open to those in the US or Canada. Make sure you post a separate comment for each way you enter or additional entries will not be counted. The giveaway will close at midnight (EST) on September 22, 2010.

I hope I've left you thoroughly converted. I am unashamedly promoting the power of the Flexi-8. :) Love it.

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Miss Alice

Guess what I'm going to see today! :)

Well, Alice in Wonderland finally hit our local "dollar theater" and so I finally get to satisfy my curiosity and see how I like this movie. I will admit that when I saw the original previews I was kind of weirded out. Everything certainly looked a bit over the top and I wasn't sure if I could handle it. But, the more I saw of the film (maybe it was all of those TV spots during the Olympics ;), the more it began to grow on me. Once you get over the fact that it's completely different from the book (actually an "artistic" blending of both Alice books) and that everyone's just a wee bit "mad" (except for Alice herself) it might just be enjoyable. (I'll tweet later and let you know which side of the "mixed reviews zone" I'm on after viewing it.)

Regardless of whether or not the movie is worth paying $1 to see, the costumes in the film sure look stunning. Designed by Colleen Atwood, I think they capture the feeling and flavor of Miss Alice and are just delightful. This blue one is a dream; with sheer sleeves, buttons, lace, and yummy embroidery at the hemline. The red dress takes Alice a little bit out of her traditional look, but is equally stunning. A red strapless dress with a full skirt and layers of tulle contrasts sharply with the black and white striped overlay. It's a very different style, but one that Alice is equally at home in.

As someone who read both Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass at a young age and has always been passionate about determined young heroines like Miss Alice, I have always found her fashion be very interesting. Although the original book illustrations were done in black and white, it seems that she has always been identified as wearing blue (at least since Disney's 1951 film). I think it suits her perfectly.

Have you got any "Wonderland" ensembles just waiting to be pulled out of your wardrobe? Below is a set of lots of pieces to hopefully provide you with some inspiration...

Starting with something either white or blue as your main piece is perfect. Whether you've got a cute little sundress, a ruffled skirt, sweet baby-doll top or lacey blouse, go for something innocent and Victorian-inspired. Once you've got a base for the rest of your ensemble, mary jane shoes or button up boots and a feminine and romantic headband make it complete. And of course, you can go just wild with accessories! May I recommend fingerless gloves and "white rabbit" necklace? :)

Be sure to click on the collection of pieces above to see all the individual items and get ideas. There's lots of ways to create a "modern Alice"look for everyday  wear. 

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Have you seen the new film or do you intend to? What were your thoughts? And how has Alice in Wonderland been special to you (or not) in the past? Any fond childhood memories? :)

Be sure to check my Twitter later in the afternoon for a post-movie update!
(UPDATE: I loved the movie! Full details in the comments! :)

Images: Fan Pop

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