Sunkissed Summer Glow In 3 Easy Steps!

Hello Readers! I apologize for the delay, but for those of you in the Chicagoland area you understand that I have been soaking up the sun! Including today's 84 degree day :) For those of my readers who are not in Chicago: fear not! Spring is coming your way and from this post you will be ahead of the game for your warm weather essentials.

One of the paramount things about my Spring/Summer's is I don't have to use foundation, period. Once I give my skin a nice healthy glow - I just dust on some bronzer and gloss (shadow for special occasions of course), and I'm out the door.  Who can resist this look?

Think of it as a makeup shortcut that's fairly simple. No color coordinating outfits with eye shadows or lipsticks & glosses, just letting your skin shine for days on end. How do you ask? I like to buy products using these rules of thumb:

• Step 1: Bronzer: Think of bronzer to your skin as highlighter is to a paper. It's to target those area's you need to see/remember right? Same with your face. Pick a bronzer with undertones of your skin and a shade or two lighter than your complexion. Or to go a fancier route, pick the bronzer the same color as your completion but boosted with glitter; both types of products give you the shine you are looking for. Also remember these key areas: 

• Steps 2&3: Lips-  You can either choose another neutral tone here, or for fun, jazz it up with bronzier products. I like to use Lip Liner that is on the opposite end of the color spectrum of the complexion. In my case, I use Peach. Then I blend it in with a bronze Lipstick or Lipgloss. The only trick here is, you can't use clear. Ever. You have to use some sort of color, otherwise your lips will disappear within with the general tone of your face and you unfortunately loose that Sunkissed look. Try colors a step above (lighter) than your complexion to complete the look.

Last but not least I cannot forget the golden rule in this look (pun intended): Skin Care! I know that technically you aren't wearing makeup you may not feel the need to wash your face. No, no, no. It's still makeup, taking host on your pores and you need to cleanse it every night. This look is bare minimum and foundations and powders typically hide the look of blemishes, but bronzer does not. So listen to Olay, and "Love the skin you're in" - Cleanse it! :)

Here are a few of my go to products:

Tarte Cheek Stain in Natural Beauty

I know "stain" typically has a negative connotation, but here it is the best thing about this product. It stays all day long, and the product gives your skin enough shine so you know it's there, but isn't heavy or cause build up the way some foundations do. You just apply to the apples of your cheeks, forehead, and chin and rub in.
It's featured in 8 different shades and you can buy online at Tarte Cosmetics or visit Sephora online & in store.

Mac Powder Blush in Format

This is the other kind of blush I use in a night time look. It's in a shade not to different from the color of powder I wear, but has the glimmer effect that I was telling you about above. Once bronzed by the sun, I get this Rose colored effect that works exceptionally when paired with a shimmer gloss and shadow. This product comes in 37 shades and is available anywhere MAC products are sold.

Rimmel London 1000 Kisses Stay On Lip Liner in Spice

Another product with the Color Stay factor. This product blends very easily with lip colors as well as glosses, doesn't smudge or budge, and is my Pop of Color for the Summer. It comes in 9 shades and sold at local drugstores.

MAC Lipstick in Cosmo

Like I said in my NYE Megapost: It's Never Too Late I am truly a MAC fan and I don't think that will ever change. Aside from their quality products, this lipstick is in essence the perfect shade. It's described as "Pink Coco" which is exactly my description for a warm weather lip color. It matches my skin, with light undertones you still look and feel like you are wearing a lip color. To check out the other shades of lip gloss, and other fabulous lip products check out  MAC  online :)

Last but not least:

This has recently become part of my daily skin regime and I could not be happier. It doubles as a face wash and a face mask that tingles below pores to cleanse your skin. It leaves me with a refreshed feeling and also helps combat oil - a foe you cannot escape in the tropical weather.

That's all for now! Enjoy the weather and be FAB!


-TLW

Photo Credit: MAC, Neutrogena.com, Rimmel London Online, Google Images, Tarte Cosmetics 

Beauty Spotlight: Kaela Humphries

Happy Weekend!! As we are all winding down our Fridays I thought it would be cool to share this tidbit of news. Recently, the gorgeous Kaela Humphries announced she would be the newest addition to Ford Models, Ford + Division.

Isn't she lovely?

I know most of you probably know Kaela for being related to ex-Mr. Kardashian, but what I really wanted to convey to my readers are the divine words the media has used to describe Kaela.
People Magazine reports:

"'[Ford is] excited at the prospect of bringing this beautiful, engaging young woman to markets worldwide,' the agency said in a release. “A true size 16-18, Kaela will be in a league of her own." - People: Kaela Humphries Signs To Ford

Wow! Aside from the accolades, to some fashion girls, Kaela has already made her mark walking during New York Fashion Week in the Richie Rich Show. Kaela was also a former Wilhelmina model, and appeared in the CW Show "Remodeled".
 
I say all this to remind you all that beauty knows no shape or size! While in the press it does identify that Kaela is a Plus Size Model, the emphasis is on her stunning beauty and  glamourizing talent. In fact one of her former colleagues had this to say:

"'Remodeled's Paul Fisher in said January, 'Kaela, they call her a plus-size model. I don't even know what this word plus means. She's normal. She's perfect. She's beautiful. They should call our models skinny people. The whole thing is wrong. It's backwards. It doesn't matter if she weighs 160, 180 -- it's completely irrelevant.'"-Zap2it.com

Preach! Industry standards: eat your heart out.

Photo Credit: People.com, Wetpaint.com


Happy Friday
-TLW!

Who Wears Short Shorts?

Hello Darling Divas! It's another week closer to Spring, and I for one could not be more excited! Continuing in my warm weather theme and at the request of one of my readers, @Edoubleyou, I have one of my sexiest trends for the heat: Jean Cutoffs & Plain Tee's!

You guys remember this 'fit right?

Beyonce's First Solo Single "Crazy In Love"- 2003

At the peak of the "Curvy Craze" Ms. Knowles rocked this outfit, and I think she looks gorgeous. I admire Avant-Garde fashion as much as the next girl, but at my core there is something so easy Royally Sexy about a plain shirt with shorts. It's the unofficial Summer uniform- comfy, casual, and the best part is you can accessorize any way you want!

My only problem is this: "Shorts" are such a relative term for each designer; I've learned this the hard way. While I love Miss Daisy Duke and her infamously daring Pedal Pushers, I don't want to look like her all Summer. I'm sure my Curvy girls agree! So how are you supposed to feel comfortable in this timeless trend? Follow these steps below for some Sharp Shorts :): 

• The good news for us Curvy girls is that Bermuda Shorts are making a swift comeback (Read Marie Claire: Top Spring Fashion Trends Straight from the Runway)!  In other words - you'll find Cutoffs long enough to favor your shape, and short enough to be brief ;)
• Make sure there's always an equal ratio of T-Shirt to Shorts. Over sized T-shirts are great, but their name says it all. You don't want to get swallowed in cotton, and you also don't want to rock Mom Jeans with a high waist. Try to always tuck some part of the shirt into the shorts so you can show off your body-Too big or too high clothes will segment you in unflattering ways.
• Accessories are key but with this trend, less is more. Remember this is Royal/Easy Sexy - you don't need a body full of jewels! A hot pair of bangles, studded earrings, funky tights, or an exceptional bag will do just fine :)
•  We've already established what kind of Jeans already fit us (Jeans For My Big Ol' Butt). and if you can't find Cutoffs - DIY! All you need is a good pair of scissors to cut the jeans at the desired length, and use the points of the blades to fray and fringe. Why not show off your take on the style!

My picks:

Gap + Threadless I Luv Uuuuu T

Silvergate That's a Wrap Sleeveless Top

Understar Shoulder Slit Shirt

Alternative Apparel Super Destroyed V-Neck T-Shirt

Blank Denim The At Risk Short

Vince Denim 5 Pocket Bermuda Shorts

Forever 21 Denim Bermuda Cutoffs

For the Daisy Duke in you:

Evil Twin The Hell Ride Shorts

Boston Forum Vintage Collection

I also come bearing deals this week :) For selected Tobi.com items you receive 30% off, Shorts Sale at Forever 21, and receive Free Shipping + 21% off by following The Karmaloop Street Team on Twitter!

Take a shot at Shorts ;)

-TLW

Cerulean, Cobalt & Indigo..Oh My!

Happy Leap Day!! It seems strange doesn't it that we have this extra day of the year, and for those of you in Chicagoland, this 60 degree day? In any case, it's a day to celebrate and what better way than to spoil yourselves and your closets with a new Spring trend.

Does anyone remember this show-stopping explanation?

Fabulous Meryl; I hope to be a Silver Coiffed Fox in my late Fashionista days, too. Nevertheless this video is the essence of Spring. Bright may be in, but Blue is definitely back.

Billy Reid NYFW 2012

Photo Source: The Ultra Bright.com

Here's the good bad news about Blues & Brights: there is no way to be subtle. Color is going to make you stand out and your figure will look much fuller with a block of color. That's just the principal of not wearing black. It brings attention to the peaks and valleys of your curves and I need you ladies to be OK with that! Because guess what? All this doesn't mean you can't wear it ;) Embrace it! Color is in, and who are you to not to put your own sassy spin on this solstice?


Time for some Blue Clues:

•  First and foremost, this is your new Spring/Summer Bestie:

This color wheel shows you exactly which colors compliment your hues. That's not to say you cannot pair Blue with any other color, but it does show you the best fit and helps avoid looking like Crayola. (Google Images)

•  Cuts, cuts, and more cuts! The color is one statement - the cut of the garment is entirely another. Like you may have read in other posts on The Last Word it's all about how you style yourself. With Blue's I would stick with something simple and structure. Remember, the garment is to for your body to fill out, not overpower your beauty!
• For accessories - stick to metals! For special occasions of course have a ball, but for every day wear I would stick to Silver or Gold. All eyes on Blue!

So Cool: See It Through Shirt

Ellison: Tiered Shirt Dress

Lush: No Going Back Hi-Low Dress

Dolce Vita: Daisy Belted Wrap Silk Romper

Cameo: Box Sleeve Dress

Flying Tomato: Lace Tank Dress

ASOS: Blue Denim Ski Pant Jeggings

Another Blue Fact: New Arrivals from Tobi.com featured in this blogpost are 30% off today only! How cool is that?!


So take a Leap this day and score some Blue!

-TLW

Slick Splits

No clever introductions today, Girls. Just a blog post sure to entice your Spring/Summer wardrobes! Let's get started :)

I am sure you have all seen this trend trickling down from NYFW:

Jason Wu Fall 2012

Naeem Khan Fall 2012

Prabal Gurung Fall 2012

Rachel Zoe Fall 2012

Rodarte Fall 2012

 Photo Credit: NBC - Thread NY

The Vintage lover in me adores this trend and it is indeed from the olden days. Originally, Split Skirts were created in the Victorian Era for Women to be remain feminine whilst taking more active roles in society. From bike/horseback riding, to gardening, the Split Skirt was the way for Women to still act like a Lady doing everyday things. (Read: What Are Culottes?) But that's just my problem - how am I supposed to wear this every day?

I was annoyed with this trend in the beginning because Split Skirts seemed like everything I wanted, but nothing I could have. I thought there is no way I could wear them unless I turned every day into a Gala (which I am not against). Until I realized that the Split Skirt is the new summer MAXI:

Cheap Monday Maxi Skirt With Front Split

An evolution of one of Summer's hottest and staple trends! Pretty cool, huh? Here's some tips to avoid looking like you're going to the Queens Ball in Split Maxi's:

• For the office or corporate affairs, stick to Neutral & Dark tones. I know you want the world to see that split, but you are showing off enough leg that the lack of bright color won't matter. Stay demure and play up a fun blouse or bright statement jewelry.
• For that EXTRA Vintage touch: belt it at the waist! (Remember The Natural Waist ?) It will make your legs look longer and depending on your belt style, it can give your outfit that extra causal flair.  
• Your skirt is long so your shirt doesn't have to be. I know this is pretty typical advice for Maxi's, but think about this: There is a lot of extra fabric in this version of the Maxi to give you the flow as you walk, and the peek-a-boo for your legs. Wearing a long top, especially here, will make you look like your clothes are dragging. Try fitted or printed tops for balance.
• Lastly if you WANT to dress up - DO IT! There isn't a soul stopping you, and you have your own personal endorser. ME! If I were to wear this on a night out, I would do a low cut top, sparkle accessories, and a bright lip. It's summer anyway ;)

"9am - 5pm" Skirts: 

Free People The Waist Sculptor Maxi Skirt in Sunkist Black Combo

Patterson J. Kincaid Skirt - Burnout Nixie Maxi

BB Dakota Sophie Long Skirt with Slit

Top Shop Front Split Maxi Skirt

"Gala" Skirts!: 

Sauce The Cosmic Zipper Maxi Skirt

Style Stalker The Minted Maxi Skirt in Mallard

Mink Pink The Man Vs. Wild Maxi Skirt

ASOS Sequin Side Split Maxi Dress

So what do you think? I love these skirts mostly because they don't limit anyone regardless of their shape and size - that's the kind of style this blog is for! Show off those Gams this summer!

-TLW

Jeans For My Big Ol' Butt

I, like every woman in America with a pair of eyes, love to SHOP! I can't get enough! When I arrive at a mall, with blood roaring through my veins, I am ready to go like it's Mission Impossible. Then when I see a colorful window display with the clothes screaming "I can fill the void in your closet" I am sold. I walk in and I pick up any and every article of clothing I love because I know this piece, is the one I've been waiting for. Then I finally make my way to the dressing room and after 3 trips in and out - nothing fits. Ever had that happen? It's not fun is it? Especially 'round your rump (pun definitely intended).

Growing up I always had to have my pants tailored, and even then they weren't the "All American Jeans" look I was going for. My waist, thighs, and butt are all a different size so it was almost torture when I outgrew pants. Until about a year ago I couldn't find anything that fits, but now, if I want jeans I exclusively shop at: The Gap. The reinvention of their Denim line is like a Godsend (read:The Verdict | Gap’s 1969 Premium Jeans) and while I don't officially endorse The Gap, I can definitely tell you what works. The jeans are slimming through the hips, thighs, and waist, have great lengths to show off your legs, and I never have to wear a belt with these jeans! Never. 

Fall back into The Gap

 I do shop at other places (Express and CITIZENS of HUMANITY have great styles to offer as well) but below are my tips for Jeans in general, and favorite styles of jeans:

• Denim will always, always have stretch. Most jeans are made with Lycra or Spandex, so if they fit in the dressing room chances are they will stretch out in the long run. Buy a size down from your normal size and wear them around to create the perfect jean mold. 
• Dye is great. Dark, Denim, Dirty, Sandblasted - we've seen all the staining and I am sure there is more to come. However, if that denim rubs off on your hands or undergarments pretty easily, chances are they won't be that color after a few washes. Higher end jeans use a color seal so your jeans can remain the same; which also brings me to..
• QUALITY! Of course there are those instances where you want this one outfit for a specific occasion. We've all been there. The $10 Jeans sale though, is one to run away from. Those jeans are usually made with lower quality denim and will not last you very long, and stretch out in the worst places. Like everything else in life, with Jeans go big or go home.

DIVE INTO DENIM:

GAP 1969 mid-weight always skinny flood jeans

GAP 1969 mid-weight real straight jeans

GAP 1969 mid-weight stiletto jeans

GAP 1969 mid-weight high-rise trouser jeans

GAP 1969 mid-weight legging jeans

EXPRESS BOOT CUT STELLA REGULAR FIT JEAN - DARK INDIGO

EXPRESS REROCK SKINNY LEG JEAN

There are other brands that I am sure work great, but the Jeans I've posted are like Vanilla Ice Cream. You just can't go wrong!

Dominate some Denim Ladies ;)

-TLW