Dark Circles

You look tired.

Yeah, that's because I'm not wearing makeup. No, I'm not sick. Yes, I'm getting enough sleep. I did just want to enjoy my day off, but now I'm totally self-conscious. Awesome.

Does this sound like your life? Then you probably have dark circles.

Don't worry, plenty of Pale Ladies have them, too:

Katherine Heigl

Keira Knightley

Have allergies (seasonal or otherwise)?

Consider taking a daily allergy pill containing an anti-histamine. Reactions to seasonal or environmental  allergens can cause puffiness (and therefore, shadows) under your eyes.

Get less than 8 hours of sleep a night?


Try to go to bed earlier a few days a week. Make a date to hit the sack just like you schedule luncheons or workouts. Being well-rested is good for your whole body including your mood.


Not wear sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15?

Why not? Seriously. We know have iPhones, Google, the microwave, and cars that turn on without a key; we know about sunscreen. Anything less than SPF 15 is a waste of your time and money. Choose one without fragrances or dyes and put it all over your face (there is absolutely no reason to have a separate 'eye cream'). Lather, rinse, repeat.

Have Pale skin?
Don't change it- it's beautiful. Just invest in a great concealer. When I say 'invest' I don't mean spend googobs of money, just read the ingredients and be smart.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Clinique 'All About Eyes' $16

 

Shiseido Natural Finish Cream Concealer $25

 

Revlon Age Defying Concealer $10

Cle de Peau Concealer $70

Note: Many formulas work better when set with loose powder. Personally, I find that powder makes my skin feel too dry, but see what works best for you. Like most things beauty- and fashion-related it's a matter of trial and error.

Apply concealer to spots and under eyes with a brush.The Non-Blonde is a totally insane crazy person (in the most amazing way) about makeup brushes. Check out her favorites here.

I Want

Lanvin Crystal-Trim Brogue T-Strap

Fully Loded (Where My Geeks At)

I need one of my lovely nail-obsessed friends to try this. It looks brilliant and clever, yet tricky to execute. Apparently, you swipe on this polish then wave the be-magnetted cap over your nail and a seriously cool design appears.

I'm looking at you, ladyflash...

A Swedish Elderberry Kiss

I just saw images from Vogue Sweden's featuring Frida Gustavsson in a 1940's-inspired shoot. It is amazing. Apart from her obvious beauty and killer bone structure, I was totally taken by the gorgeous shade of plum gracing her lips. She looks like a little Swedish milk maid who's just bitten into some freshly picked Elderberries.

On it's own, this shade could make her look like a goth Camden Town Chick. But the supporting colors chosen for these looks are petal pink, charcoal gray, burgundy, iris blue, and mint green. Flawless.

I'm picking up these lipsticks to see if I can match the look:

Smashbox Marvelous

Dior Addict Perfecto No. 991

I remember reading a positive review for this one on The Non Blonde. She loved it, so I will most definitely be giving it a try.

YSL Rouge Volupte No. 22 Exquisite Plum

Finds of the Week: Plaid

Repetto Flats

Vivienne Westwood Tartan Scarf

Emilio Cavallini Plaid Tights

Lodis 'Edinburgh' iPad case

Pendleton Plaid Messenger Bag

Floppy Wool Felt Hat with Bow

Precisely Plaid-matic Skirt

See by Chloe Lace Up Booties

Finds of the Week: I Wanna Be A School Girl

'Art Class' dress from Shabby Apple

Hot Air Balloon Tights from ModCloth

ASOS Opaque Stud Earrings

L.K. Bennett 'Rhian' Jacket

'6062' by Zamagni

Circa Joan & David 'Evenson' Oxford

Typewriter Initial Watch

'Catcher in the Rye' iPhone Case

Nine West Colorblock Shoulderbag

Animal Print Part Two

Key 1:

Minimalism.


Basically every print looks crazy if you wear it all over your body. Very few people can do this and pull it off. Most of them already have a signature Look and the AP just plays a supporting role.


Start by adding an accessory. I feel that shoes are really where one can experiment with entry-level AP. Avoid shoes with humongous platforms, myriad straps, or boots of any kind (reptile is the only exception).

Prada

Via Spiga

Coach

Wearing them with all black gives a playful edge to a monochromatic look.

Kate Moss

Toss them on with jeans when you want to add a bit of flirtyness to an old standby.

Cameron Diaz

Another great way to integrate some AP is through a handbag. They look great when displayed on classic shapes such as a chain purse, doctor's bag, or satchel. Avoid backpacks, hobos, and heavy-handed hardware.

Dita von Teese

An animal print belt on top of a flattering solid color is unexpected and fun. Avoid belts over 2'' thick, elastic cinch belts, double-buckles, and rhinestones.

Stay tuned for the continuation of Our Saga.