Locks to Louboutins

 

 

 

 

 

My hair is growing and I am in my first pair of Louboutins!

 

Boyfriend shirt: Madewell

Boyfriend distressed jeans: Zara

Fringed handbag: Leith available at Nordstrom

Louboutins: Nordstrom

4 Ways to Wear

 

This season is all about "safari luxe." It is all over magazines and it is what we stand for at work (Nordstrom) right now. I am kind of obsessed with the idea of making safari look chic. So here are some camo jeans from Nordstrom that I already wear way too much and I have so many more ways to style them, these are just a few! I paired these with leopard, booties, heels, silk, and graphic tees!  Have fun on your next adventure in some camo!

 

 

Hold the Grace

For a gal who dresses the part and (tries to) walk the walk... I am a disaster! There is not an ounce of grace in my body as shown in the photo. My poor friend Rayne agreed to be my photographer and boy did I make her regret that decision... I am basically the worst model ever so any semi decent shots we get usually happen because I am not paying attention... 

On a different note... I love this outfit because it is so simple but quite the statement and I am showing another way to take your coated denim (that cost you a lot for just one season) into spring! I paired my coated Citizens of Humanity from Nordstrom with a mint green blouse from Express and most importantly polished off this look with my beautiful Brian Atwood pewter pumps from Hautelook! 

Show me how you make a first impression!

In the words of Selena Gomez: "Show me how you make a first impression..." The month of March has been crazy and awesome for me! I got transferred to a different Nordstrom store and in a new position! My commute is a bit longer but it is worth it! On a daily basis I am surrounded by merchandise such as Christian Louboutin (swoon), Chanel (I die), Rachel Zoe (bananas), Alexander Mcqueen (OMG).So far I absolutely love it... So naturally I wanted to stand out on my first day so you better believe this is what I wore. My dress AND shoes are Rachel Roy. I kind of am obsessed. This dress is killer, it fits so beautifully and believe it or not, I can last in these kicks all day!

Rachel Roy dress: Nordstrom

Rachel Roy lace up booties: Macy's

Ambush Makeover

In the fashion industry there is no shortage of routes to take when it comes to picking which way you want to go... You can become a buyer, seller, merchandiser, designer, or a stylist to name a few. For me, I have known since I was about 14 that I would become a stylist. There are also many different kinds of stylists. For example I am a stylist for Nordstrom right now and I get to take on clients that are interested in a. being styled by a pro or b. want someone to do their shopping for them. There are also stylists to the stars and then there is my dream kind of styling: What Not to Wear style. I have always admired Stacy and Clinton for not only what they do but WHY they do what they do. For ten years they helped women find a style and "enhance their natural beauty" by giving them head to toe makeovers. I do hair, makeup, and styling so I want to be able to be peoples whole package and the expert they can trust.
Since What Not to Wear is over (RIP) I have turned to the Today Show on Thursdays for their "Plaza Ambush Makeovers." It is essentially the same idea except shrunk from one week to a couple of hours. Which is actually incredible since they color and cut hair, do a full face of makeup and find the perfect dress for each womans body type in just a few hours. It really is extraordinary to see someone go from your average everyday woman to a beaming and confident women by truly just enhancing what we already have!
Click here to see todays ambush makeover from the Today Show on NBC! What an amazing transformation for these friends!

Will you be mine?

Whether you are in a relationship with that special someone or you are about to be in a very serious relationship with Ben and Jerry we think you should enjoy Valentine's Day! So go out, get a new dress or a great pair of shoes, you deserve it! You can even take a great alternate route if you have some extra moola laying around... take yourself or a friend out on a shopping trip! Shop til you drop, go see a funny movie, and get an early dinner on V day... We don't want anybody feeling alone or sad on this holiday! Just in case you are in need of some ideas of what you might need for the big day, here are some great options!

 

LRD

Laser cut out booties

This coat is a must have for our fashion forward fashionistas! And would be a great outfit completer for this look!

Finishing touch... a funky little clutch!

 

 

Color Me, Buy Me!

Written by: Madeleine

New research explains how color affects our purchases!

As most of you have figured out, shopping is my ultimate favorite hobby. But when it comes to shopping, new research shows that it is more than browsing items. Color drastically affects our decisions and impulses to buy. Click the image below to read more about it!

Know Your Bra!

Written by: Madeleine

The one piece that is common across all women's wardrobes around the world is the bra. Even though most women wear one everyday, they don't know much about the styles, upkeep, and wear of the bra! I was totally shocked by this when I was rehired at a lingerie store this past fall. I guess because I have been with this company for so long, I thought everyone was educated about the bra! I've created a list below of 5 things that every woman should know about her bra!

1. Always clasp your bra one the loosest hook!
To ensure you get the most wear out of your bra, clasp the hook to the loosest eye. This way the band is not stretched excessively overtime, which can cause distortion to the cups and/or loosen the fitting of the band. It helps the bra retain its shape, so it can provide the proper support.

2. Know your complimentary size!
So you can't find your size or a particular style doesn't work well with your shape? Don't worry! Try your complimentary size! Since cup sizes are proportional to the band, you can find a similar fit to your true size. Simply change your band size and adjust for cup. If you go down a band size, then go up one cup size. Or if you go up a band size, go down a cup size. For example, if you are a 34B, you could also wear a 32C.

3. Try on every style!
Based on your breast shape, different styles like demi, perfect coverage, and push-up will fit you differently. So just because it is your size, doesn't mean it is going to fit correctly. If your breasts are fuller on the bottom, but not the top, opt for a demi style. This way you won't have any gapping in the cup and you will have the correct support. If you are full everywhere (or you've gotten your breasts done), try a perfect coverage; this will ensure you stay in the bra all day without slippage. Push-ups do work for everyone, especially if you need help filling out in some areas. However, sometimes you will have to go up a cup size to adjust for the volume!

4. One to wear, one to wash, one to have.
Every woman needs three basic bras in her wardrobe to start her collection. The idea behind this is that you should have one to wear, one that needs to be washed, and one to have on reserve. These bras should be black or nude, since they are the most versatile. Opposed to contrary belief, nude is the perfect color to wear under white because you won't see the cups of the bra. Sometimes when you wear a white bra under a white shirt, the cups of the bra are emphasized. Once you have the basic three, then you can expand your wardrobe to include more fun colors and styles. (Just be careful! I suddenly have 17 different bras!)

5. Get measured every 6 months!
Just how your weight fluctuates, so does your breast size. That is why you need to get measured frequently!

It's Award Season!

Written by: Madeleine
In Collaboration with: Brittany

Some people love winter because of the frosty air and holiday cheer. Others adore the spring season with all the colors and flowers. But for me, my favorite season has always been award season. It's all about the regal Oscar de la Renta gowns and Marchesa's inspired designs and those vintage Dior dresses. I have always pictured myself as one of the commentators on E! reporting on all the award events, drooling over the couture and getting to be the first to see all the jaw dropping red carpet moments. But until then, here are my favorite looks from the Golden Globes!

Caitlin Fitzgerald in Emilia Wickstead

Kate Beckinsale in Zuhair Murad

Olivia Wilde in Gucci

Lupita Nyong'o in Ralph Lauren


Emma Watson in Dior

The Golden Globes 2014 sported gowns in mostly metallics, reds, and whites, which will all be hot for the spring! Two-tone and color-blocked pieces seemed to make a come-back this season as well. Stay tuned for more spring trends!

Our Top 5 Favorite Products

Written by: Madeleine
In Collaboration with: Brittany

New year, new products! We are always on the lookout for products that are worth your buck; so, we figured we'd share our top products from 2013!

Brittany's Picks:
1) YSL Babydoll Mascara

This unique formula helps separate each lash to create a 24 hour lasting, wide-eyed look! I just use on coat and my lashes stay long, thick, and clump-free all day. (Available at Sephora, $30)








2) Elizabeth and James Nirvana Perfume

Nirvana was just released only a couple months ago and it is Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen's first fragrance. I was lucky enough to receive it as a Christmas gift and I have been wearing it ever since! The Nirvana Black has essence of sandalwood, violet, and vanilla that creates a delicate, sensual balance. (Available at Sephora, $75)






3) DermOrganic

If your hair needs some love after all the heat products you use, try Derm Organic shampoo, conditioner, and oil. Argan oil is used in most of the products to help create a soft and silky look. They even have skincare products as well! (Available online at DermOrganics)









4) Enrorich Gel Insoles

One of the most frequent questions I get asked is how I can wear heels all day long; in this post, I will finally reveal my magic trick… Enrorich gel insoles from Aldo! They are only around $10, but they do wonders for your feet! (Available at Aldo, prices vary)






5) Estee Lauder's Double Wear Light

I was obsessed with full coverage foundation, not because I needed the coverage, but because it seemed to create a more complete look. However, that was until I tried Estee Lauder Double Wear Light. I was always a little opposed to Estee Lauder because I thought the collection was for older women, but I can now firmly say that it is not! It's perfect because it covers, conceals, and evens skin tone, but it's not heavy, looks natural, and lasts all day! (Available at Estee Lauder)


Madeleine's Picks:
1) Urban Decay B6 Spray

All my life I've struggled with acne and discoloration and I have tried so many different products. I happened to stumble across the Urban Decay B6 Spray as a sample from Sephora. I cannot believe that I had never heard of it or even tried it because it has completely changed my skin for the better. It is a vitamin-infused complexion prep spray that helps reduce redness, minimize pores, and absorbs oil. The main ingredient is Vitamin E that provides antioxidants and willow bark that is rich in natural salicylic acid. I use it twice a day after I cleanse my face and it has made such a difference for my complexion. (Available at Urban Decay, $33)

2) Victoria's Secret, VS Perfect Body Smooth Paraffin

Since I work with my hands so much, it is hard to keep them hydrated and moisturized. I've spent so much money trying to find a treatment that actually works. At work, the girls were talking about this ultimate hand treatment cream that we sell. I have to say, I was skeptical about it because nothing has helped my hands. Now it is all I wear and my hands are moisturized and don't crack from dryness anymore! (Only available at Victoria's Secret Semi-Annual Sale)



3) Benefit Erase Paste

When I don't get enough sleep, I get awful bags under my eyes; I would pile on cover-up and foundation to get rid of them, but it never worked. Then Brittany actually turned me on to Benefit' Erase Paste. The unique formula is a cream that has high covering power without looking caky or leaving residue. I even use it on parts of my face that have permeant redness or scaring. (Available at Sephora, $26)


4) Sally Hansen Salon Pro Gel Polish

I was tired of painting my nails all the time or spending money for manicures, so I invested in a gel kit from Sally Hansen. Even though it was expensive, it was worth it. Now I can have a nice manicure that lasts for about 2 weeks and helps promote nail growth and health! It is at the top of my list for any retail working girl! (Available at Target, $70)




5) Marc Jacobs Beauty, Lovemarc Lip Gel

Ask anyone and they will tell you I am a lipstick fanatic! I have tried so many brands and I have a solid collection. But, Marc Jacobs' lipsticks are by far the best. They don't dry out your lips and don't bleed during the day (with or without liner). I get the best compliments when I wear his line because the colors are so rich. (Available at Sephora, $30)

Taste and Toast of France: Event Re-Cap

Written by: Madeleine

Last night, we were delighted to spend time at the Veterans' Center in Danville, California, exploring and celebrating the vibrant Parisian culture. The Taste and Toast of France invited local merchants and Parisian consignment shops and speciality food shops to create a French ambience to promote small business, fashion, and the exploration of new cultures.
We were lucky enough to be invited to the event to host a live tutorial of different ways to tie a scarf, a classic French accessory. We were shocked and delighted to see such an enthusiastic and positive response from the guests as they twisted and tucked scarves and provoked interesting conversation. Below we've posted our handout from the event!

(Image from bigpinboards.com)

We are also thrilled to announce that we will be back to the City of Danville's event in March for an Irish theme! For more information about the event, visit their site.

Happy Holidays!

From the desk of the contributors of Locks to Louboutins...

Happy New Year, 2014! We hope all of our readers had a wonderful holiday season filled with joy and love! Even though we stayed local this year, we for sure had a special season too! In between the crazy holiday schedule of retail, we found time to enjoy with our family and friends. Brittany spent part of the Christmas season in Disneyland with her boyfriend and pretended she was Cinderella. Madeleine, on the other hand, went sea-side to visit her grandparents in Half Moon Bay.

Apparently, both of us were "nice" this year as Santa spoiled us! We are so excited to share our couture gifts with our readers! Firstly, Brittany received not one… but two pairs of Christian Louboutins pumps! Both pairs are the epitome of Brittany as a fashionista and we are stoked to feature them in a shoot! Maddie was blessed by the fashion gods as well as she received a Marc Jacobs handbag! The simple silhouette of the bag is offset by the black and brown leather combination, making the bag an edgy, yet classic addition to her wardrobe.

We are so excited to bring in the new year with all of you and cannot wait to see what 2014 has in store! As of now, there are some pretty amazing things set up for Locks to Louboutins in this 2014 year… So bring it on!

Love,
Madeleine and Brittany

Fur-tastic!

Written by: Madeleine
In Collaboration with: Brittany


We show you how to make your holiday outfits fur-tastic three different ways!

Happy December! Now that the weather is finally feeling like winter, it can be hard to keep warm while looking fashionable. Obviously, the best thing to do during winter is layers. Layering allows you to keep warm, but also adjust to the weather by adding or taking off a layer. The best thing to do is to start with a basic layer, such as a cami or long-sleeved tee. Even though it is a simple piece, it will blend into your outfit and keep some of your body heat in! Next, do whatever top you wanted to wear. (Using the "Brittany tuck" here can keep the outfit from looking super bulky.) Then add a light sweater or sweatshirt that compliments your top. Finally, put some outerwear on! This could be a leather jacket, peacoat, or a goose feather jacket.

If you are feeling on the more adventurous side, try one of this seasons top trends... A fur vest! Whether you go with a vegan, vintage, or luxurious fur, you will be a knockout. Here are some ways to wear fur for different occasions!

Skirt it up! Throw on the fur vest over a mini skirt with boots. It is a quick and chic look that isn't too much for the daytime, but can quickly transition into a date night with some makeup changes. Here, I contrasted the fur vest with a tweed skirt. The mix of textures compliment each other and don't compete with each other.

Skirt: Hinge
Blouse: Forever21
Vest: Jack
Boots: Tory Burch

Break out those light wash jeans again because they look killer with a furry vest. Once again, the textures of denim and fur creates visual interest in the outfit that makes it work. This look is perfect for doing some holiday shopping, lunching with the girls, or a night out. Take it up a notch by adding some amazing heels.

Jeans: Joe's
Blouse: Madewell
Heels: Brian Atwood

Finally, spice it up with some colored jeans and booties. This casual look is still dressy, but not over the top and it will make you feel super confident! It shows your fashionista side while being appropriate. When you do a colored denim, make sure it doesn't overpower the fur vest. Like I mentioned before, it should support the fur, not take away from it. Otherwise, your outfit will just be a screaming competition between pieces. If you don't feel comfortable doing a colored denim, try a coated or black denim. It's still an appropriate and classy look.

Jeans: Hudson
Blouse: Urban Outfitters
Booties: Indigo by Clarks
Jewelry: Alex and Ani and Marc by Marc Jacobs

For more photos, please visit our gallery!

Holiday Sequins

Written by: Madeleine
In Collaboration with: Brittany


As women, there is one thing that will always and without fail capture our attention: SPARKLES. That's one reason why I am so obsessed with this Halogen sequin skirt that I bought from Nordstrom last season. But sometimes full sequined items can be intimidating because it is a hard piece to balance out. However, here are a few simple tricks to bring in that sparkle and shine into your holiday wardrobe!

It's all about the balance. Find a piece that's still bold, but that also compliments the shine. This could be a loud color, like I did here, or different texture. It might be hard to find that perfect piece at first, but it is definitely doable! Usually, jewel tones work with sequins because the color can stand on its own and have some impact.

Secondly, keep it simple. Don't try to add another piece that overwhelms the sequins. This creates too much visual interest and the eye has a hard time focusing on one area. You want people to see an outfit, not a sparkly skirt and a crazy shirt. Pick a silhouette that has clean lines, but not too structural.

Sequins and shine, when done correctly, are appropriate for any occasion. Honestly, it depends on how you style it. For this example, I would wear this outfit to work, for a business meeting, or a dinner. If I paired this skirt with a basic boyfriend tee, I could wear it while hanging out with friends or shopping downtown.

And as always, add a third piece. No matter what you are wearing, the third piece is essential. Here, it is best just to add a necklace because there is a lot going on. Shine on, my fashionistas! Shine on!

*** For more photos, visit our gallery!

Skirt: Halogen
Top: J. Crew
Shoes: Simply Vera Wang
Pearls: Vintage (from Brittany's grandmother)

Cute and Sweet to Rocker Chic

Written by: Madeleine
In Collaboration with: Brittany

How to do rocker chic when you're cute and sweet!

November in northern California is absolutely perfect. The weather everyday has that fine balance of the warm summer—like sunshine and the crisp winter breeze. Therefore, sometimes finding that perfect fall outfit is difficult. My advice is to do easy layers, so you can add on and take off. Here, I started with  simple boyfriend tee. Since the tee is a little oversized, it can look sloppy. So here's a little trick that has been come to known as "The Brittany Tuck." Take the middle of the bottom of the shirt and tuck it in right behind button of the pant or middle of a skirt. Then carefully, pull at the tuck to loosen it. Add a skinny belt if there are belt loops. "The Brittany Tuck" creates an effortless, yet chic look and it takes only a few seconds for added style.

For this outfit, I transformed a plain tee by adding pieces that have other visual interest. I wanted to do a "rocker chic" look that still fit my style. Since I am not as edgy and hardcore as other fashionistas, I stuck to staple pieces that I already had in my closet and felt comfortable in. But, I added one bold piece, the leather jacket. It is important to still feel like yourself and not to get lost in your clothes.

Like Stacy and Clinton say, make sure your outfit has texture, pattern, color, and shine. For texture, I have my Paige denim jeans on with a leather jacket, juxtaposing distressed with smooth. On the jacket, there is a beautiful, yet subtle quilt pattern. Shine plays a factor through the small hints of jewelry like my necklace, watch, and bracelets. When you layer these visual elements, a cohesive outfit unfolds instantly.

*** For more photos, visit our gallery!

Jacket: Hinge
Shirt: Gibson
Denim: Paige, "Verdugo"
Shoes: Rachel Roy
Sunglasses: Prada

Boyfriend Jeans, Season to Season

Written by: Madeleine
In Collaboration with: Brittany

Boyfriend jeans were so hot this summer. But now it's fall... Don't worry because that slouchy pant look is still in! Even if your BF jeans are a light wash, it is all about bringing that fall vibe into the outfit. Turn to the runway for inspiration! Some of the most popular fall trends include classic prints, like herringbone, plaid, and pinstripe, turtlenecks, knit beanies, folk-inspired pieces, shades of green, jewel tones, and punk-rock grunge. Find a look you love and run with it.

Personally, I love accessories. especially booties and hats. Here, I sported my summery jeans with adorable oxblood colored booties and a wide-brimmed black felt hat. I added some cute ruffle socks for a feminine, but cozy look!

*** For more photos, visit our gallery!

Boyfriend jeans: Current/Elliot, "Super Loved"
Booties: H&M
Hat: BLACK Saks Fifth Avenue

The Joy of Rachel Roy

Me and the beautiful and talented, Rachel Roy

Written by: Madeleine
In Collaboration with: Brittany


One of the best things about living so close to San Francisco is that there is always something happening. On the spur of the moment, a few co-workers and I decided to travel into the city to the Fall Fashion Festival in Union Square. For only one night, local retailers and designer stores celebrate fashion by staying open late and feature live music, free food, complimentary gifts, and host special events.

While we were wandering around, a Macy's sign caught my eye-- Special appearance by Rachel Roy. I immediately darted off to find the event, dragging my co-workers behind. Awkwardly, we were the first people to arrive and timidly entered a drawing to win a one-on-one styling session from Rachel Roy. Now, when I say I never win anything in my life, it is true. Except for this night. When they called the third name, I was shocked to here it was mine! And then a few names later, my co-worker's name was called too! I could not believe this was happening at all, even when I approached Rachel Roy, sitting quietly on a fold-out chair.

Meeting Rachel

I got to talk with Rachel for a little while and I explained what I was doing with my life currently and my aspirations for the future. Of course, she was nothing but kind and stunning and gave me some words of wisdom and inspiration.

One of her stylists took me back and we began to thumb through the racks of clothing. Such strong emotions of joy and excitement bubbled over inside me. I couldn't believe this was happening. I met Rachel Roy and I was being styled by one of her assistants! This moment, in itself, solidified the fact that I love what I am doing. After trying on a bunch of different things, I fell in love with a fit-and-flare dress and some sassy heeled booties for the fall.



As I strolled around the event after my purchases, I attracted more famous people as I ran into Katie, a blogger from Refinery 29! We swapped ideas and I picked her brain on how to make this site even more amazing! And of course, we hit up the photo op!

This night had to be the best fashion fairytale ever! Everything seemed to fall into place and magically unfold as the event developed. For such a spontaneous trip, it ended amazingly.