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Wednesday, December 30, 2009

In With the New for 2010

With the new year swiftly approaching, Frock It Out will be featuring a new series of posts called Designers to Watch (and take cues from!) along with our regular posts. Included in the series will be great up and coming designers that haven't really hit the main stream just yet (though you may have heard of some of them). So get ready for a fresh new outlook on fashion, style, and the world of design. We're bringing it to you right here at Frock It Out and you don't want to miss it!

If you just can't wait to see what we're talking about, we have a short list of  the designers who will be featured in 2010.

Basso and Brooke
Behnaz Sarafpour
Jordi Labanda
Reem Acra
Laura Bortolami
Martin Grant
Parnasse
Bless
Bernard Willhelm

We can't  believe that 2009 is over and we're starting a new decade or that graduation is only a few short months away (truly unbelievable), but we hope that your year will be filled with the best fashion and beauty advice there is. And with that, we wish you a happy, joyous, memorable, safe, healthy, and an overall amazing 2010!

Love, Elise and Jill

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Do You Know the Difference?

I know this seems like a stupid question, but do you actually know the difference between concealer and foundation?

If you don't, then you could be using the wrong product for the wrong thing. Which is always frustrating.

Concealer is to literally "conceal" blemishes, scars, dark spots, and dark circles. This should not be spread all over your face. It should only go on areas that need extra coverage, like if you have a zit, for example. it doesn't have to match your skin shade perfectly, either, where a foundation should. In fact, I recommend you go a shade lighter than your actual color for more coverage. This stuff can make your face really white if you put it all over your face, even if you do put powder on afterwards. My personal favorite is Physician's Formula's Conceal Rx.

Foundation is more to even out your skin tone and prime your face for the other makeup that you'll be putting on over it. It helps the makeup stick to your face better. This should be used all over your face and can be put over the concealer if you already have some on. It should match your skin color almost perfectly, and should probably include some SPF for extra protection. I also put it on my eyelids to prime them for eyeshadow. It makes the shadow last longer and prevents some creasing.  Again, I like all of the  different foundations from Physician's Formula.

Merry Christmas !

--Jill

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Miss New Bootie

It's not what you're thinking! This article is in no way implying that you shouldn't eat to your tummy's content this holiday season or that you need exercise (exercise is no fun!). In fact, I had my iPod on shuffle and none other than "Miss New Booty" came up. This got me thinking. What if I did an article on my fave ankle boots from this season? And voila, a post! I hope you enjoy this compliation of my top 5 booties (in no particular order) of fall/winter 2009!


1. This ankle boot is not only one of my favorite booties, but also is a variation of my favorite flat boot. It is the Steve madden Jessii boot and is available on his website and wherever Steve Madden shoes are sold. Approx. $90.


2. Valentino. Enough Said. They'll cost you a pretty penny, about $950, but they are to die for. Just look at the studs! Ah-dorable. You can find them at shopstyle.com.




3. Steve Maddens again! (the Calliee flat) I just love these purple ankle boots and they pair well with denims and other neutrals. They are a great way to transition warm-weather clothes into winter and to add a splash of color to any look. Find them wherever Steve Madden is sold. Approx. $90. See Winterizing Your Closet.



4. Another impractical buy. Leave it to the website I found them on: farfetch.com These are so fabulous, though that I couldn't resist showing you! Note the detail of the sole, it mimicks a traditional style boot. However, feminie strap details and a flirty stilleto heel add just as much femininity as there is ferocity. Simply, these boots are love! These babies will cost you about $1300.



5. These booties are not only great for fall and winter but they work year round! Each pair is peep-toe which makes them an absolute essential for summer. Plus, if you can snag a black pair, you can use black tights with them. Please remember that usually, it is never ok to wear tights with open toed shoes. But, with these being peep-toed, it doesnt matter much. Only do this with the blackpair, however! You can find these at mydivascloset.com and they are the Madora boots. They'll run you about $38.

I hope you enjoyed these boots and find ways to incorporate similar ones into your wardrobes! Oh, and remember "a girl's just as hot as the shoes she Choos." :)

xoxo Elise

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

A Lesson in RTW





Hello Lovelies! Although I realize it is nowhere near spring or summer, I wanted to all give you a head start on the ins and outs of the season.

Before I dive in, I would like to define RTW for those of you who are lost in fashion translation. It's actually quite simple. RTW is an acronym the fashion world uses for ready-to-wear clothing. As you may or may not have noticed, many designers' lines do not look wearable. So, RTW's purpose is to present pieces that can be worn as outfits and are readily available to the consumer and to fashion buyers.

First is Marc Jacobs coverage. A friend sent me this photo from the website and I absolutely adore this outfit. It encompasses all of the cute elements that spring and summer allow for. More so, the neutral colors can be easily kept that way or paired with  brights to create a fresh look. As you can see the flannel and plaid aren't going away for a while, so if you have invested in or are pondering the purchase of plaid and flannel, go right ahead; it will serve you well.  Take note of the colors and patterns and even the textures. None of them match. That's an important lesson that RTW designers and the best fashionistas have mastered. Nothing must match. It can, but it is not necessary. This, however, is most definitely not an invitation to wear every neon bright you can possibly pile onto your body. Please don't. What I am saying is this:

PIECES SHOULD GO, NOT MATCH. Nothing kills me more than a pretty girl in head to toe print, pattern, or color, with no relief. This rule also applies to designers. As you noticed, I have been talking about Marc Jacobs, and the outfit above is entirely from his line. You don't need to be decked in all one brand or all in one store's clothing. Mixing it up creates options and some of the best and most unique looks.

Back to the purpose of Jacbos education, he really brings much of the past back. Yes, I am alluding to the eighties. I wasn't even born, and I know it was traumatic fashion to those who look back, but Mr. Jacobs is taking the geometrics, bright colors, and safari prints and transforming them into pants, tops, dresses, and accessories that any girl would envy. As is his typical style, he has some classic, polished items as well as his typical rocker-chic pieces and bags.

Stripes and florals are also abundant in the upcoming seasons if Jacobs is your thing. A majority of his looks are breezy and beach-y as well, with some pieces that we've seen before. A disappointing yawn. Despite this, though, he's fresh and gives off the vibe of someone who is effortlessly cool. A great fashion personality, above all else.

So take a look at his entire 2010 RTW line, its reMARCable. Hopefully, you'll draw some inspiration and find ways to add some flair to pieces you already own.

xoxo Elise

Sunday, December 13, 2009

The Only Leggings that Can Be Worn as Pants



Not everyone knows that leggings cannot be worn as pants.

Yes, I am talking to you, girl who wears a sequined tank top and a pair of black leggings with flip-flops out in public in the middle of winter in the Midwest.

Leggings are not pants. Do not wear them unless your dress or top hits below your butt.

But before I go into a rant about how much I hate it when people don't think before they walk out the door, I have a new development for all of the people who still like to wear leggings as pants.

I just recently purchased a pair of leggings, only they look like jeans. They are completely opaque and even have pocket and stitching details like a real pair of jeans. When I first bought them, I was intensely skeptical. I should not be wearing these as pants in any way shape or form.

So when I wore them for the first time, I played it safe and wore them with a long cowl neck sweater that I love dearly and also hits below my butt.

The response I received from everyone at the party was somewhat explosive. Everyone complimented me on my insanely well-fitted jeans. Little did they know, that they hugged in all the right places because they were actually made of a very stretchy medium and not actual denim.

This was enough to convince me to create a new fashion rule in my book: Leggings may only be worn as pants if they look enough like jeans to fool people.

- Jill

Friday, December 11, 2009

Never Heat Style Again! Yes, I said it...

So just today I was having a conversation with my best friend about how I missed the time when my hair was naturally straight. As I've gotten older, my hair has become wavy/curly and a tad frizzy. So, humidity is my (and my straighener's) worst enemy.

Solution? It's in your genes.

Let's go back for a second to our days of biology. The strength of hair's Sulfur bonds determine whether or not your hair will be wavy or curly or straight. Specifically, the gene is trichohyalin, which helps in the growth of the hair follicle.

Ok, that was a nice second that surely you all don't want to relive; but nevertheless, that's what got this study going. And, because the answer is in your genes and is medically related, there could be a pill out there in the near future to make your hair straighter. Or, if you're over straight locks, there could be one that can give you the valuptuous volume and curl you crave. Sounds like the answer to my prayers!

So look out, and get ready for the straightest, most sleek, and fabulously curly hair ever! The plus, if you don't like your new look, just take the opposite one to reverse the effects.

Stay with us and we'll have the exclusive on everything, including when this oh-so-miraculous pill hits stores!

Love the idea? Hate the idea? We want to know!

Information from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/

xoxo Elise

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Getting Scuffy?




One of my biggest pet peeves is when I take out a pair of new shoes, wear them one time, and then find out that I have somehow scuffed them. Being the clumsy person that I am, this happens much too often for my (or my mother's) liking. Instead of getting bent up out of shape about it, I decided to find a solution to this age old dilemma.


The simplest answer was right in front of my nose. It's something that everyone has in the house and is easily accessible if you don't have them. Plus, It's super cheap. 


Have you guessed it yet?


It's permanent marker! Though it does not completely repair the shoes, if it's just a cute pair of shoes that didn't cost you much, or even an old favorite that you don't want to get fixed by a shoemaker, then permanent markers are the way to go. They're fast ,convenient, come in all different colors, and no one will ever know you used it. I make it a point to have a black and brown one on me at all times, just in case. 


-Jill

Wednesday, December 09, 2009

Winterizing Your Closet

I realize that although it is not technically that season, winter already seems as if it is in full swing! It came soooo quickly. I have tons and tons of pieces in my wardrobe that I'm dying to wear, but are impractical due to the cold and especially windy weather that I've been experiencing lately. What's a girl to do?

Well,  slews of girls have been wrapping up in fleeces and Ugg boots. Unfortunate. There's so much you can do to put together a creative and polished look and keep a great piece going year round without screaming "freezing teenage girl!". Here's how:

1) Keep with the neutrals. Neutrals include cream, black, navy, brown, tan, taupe, cream, gray, and variations of colors in those same families. Neutral bottoms and sweaters can help to mellow out a somewhat bright or floral top. Plus, it lets your summery pieces add a pop of color to the bland weather conditions.

2) I know your skin color isn't what it used to be, a cruel reality of a four-season climate. But you can still accentuate the undertones of your skin. How? Sometimes it's hard to pick colors that bring out your skin tone especially if you can't really pick out the undertones. My suggestion, use metallics. Gold and bronze are a great way to show off darker complexions, as metallic grays, pewters, and silvers are for those of us who are pale, as I am. Metallics are also great ways to add color and shine to holiday pieces.

4. Accessorize. When I say this, I am warning you: DO NOT GO OVERBOARD! To paraphrase a Coco Chanel quote, always take one thing off before you go out to keep from overdoing it. Accessorize with scarves, neutral bags, and some bright, but not obnoxious jewelry. This keeps an outfit from getting too bland. Be careful with the scarves. One that's too chunky could add some weight that's not even there and one thats too thin or tied incorrectly could give a poor silhouette. Keeping it neutral helps you when incorporating summer pieces.

5. Try out a hat. I never thought I looked good in them, but one day I was just compelled to try one on. I did and I loved it. I bought it in cream so it incorporates well with a lot of the pieces I already have.

6. One last thing: tights. I know, I know, tights have been in for a while and they're great, what's new? Nothing. I just think they're great and add wearability to a summery dress or slightly short skirt without making you suffer through the chills, ice, wind, and snow winter brings about.

I hope this was helpful to you all. Any questions or comments are welcome, as always! I encourage you to try out some of these ideas, but maybe not all at once....trend overkill is one of the biggest fashion don'ts, EVER. And please note that not every look will work for everyone so only do what's best for you.

Stay warm!

xoxo Elise

Four Fashion Must-Reads

So I thought I'd escape the world of fashion and beauty for a second (okay, not really, but it won't be directly addressed). I recently purchased a book that changed the way I look at the fashion world...for the better, of course! This got me thinking. I decided that this post would be a review of some of the best fashion inspired books I've seen. I encourage you to take a look at some of them.


First is The Teen Vogue Handbook. Vogue has always been known for their fantastic fashion spreads, expert camera and stylistic work, and out of this world editing (hence my idol, Anna Wintour). Teen Vogue is no different. With advice from fashion design pros like Marc Jacobs to Teen Vogue's editor-in-chief Amy Astley, this book is packed with tips on how to break into the business. I strongly recommend reading this one.

Next, Karl Lagerfeld: A Portrait of Dorian Gray. As fantastic as I expected Wilde's novel to be, I wasn't incredibly impressed. Yet, Lagerfeld has captured the essence of the story of a man who would rather trade his soul and moral beliefs for youth and beauty, and created it into a beautiful series of portraits. Fantastic! This one's a little pricey, about thirty-eight dollars.

World in Vogue. Again, greatness in photo form. This book captures the best of the best dressed in the industry. Almost as large of an inspiration as my fave fashion movie "Breakfast at Tiffany's," this one will resonate with you.

I absolutely adore Coco Chanel. Adore her. I've seen the lifetime movies, ogled at her original pieces, and continue to love the brand which Karl Lagerfeld has kept going with much expertise. (Yes, again with the Lagerfeld; he's a genius!) So my final pick is Chanel and Her World:Friends, Fashion, and Fame. She is a timeless designer and her story is also greatly inspirational. Another pricey one, about forty dollars. It's well worth it though--she is an icon, and she really rounded out twentieth century style.

Thoughts? Feel free to leave a comment or give any input on fashion inspired works that influence you.

xoxo Elise

Extreme Nail Art

Have you ever seen someone with totally blinged out nails? Your thoughts were probably something along these lines when you first saw them: "Those are cute." or "Those are a  complete train wreck." 


Well, for the girls that don't think these nails are too tacky, there is hope for the future. Although the trend has not hit the states yet, embellished nails have been huge in Japanese fashion for years now. Though it just started with the pinky nail a few years ago, the nail art has started to cover all ten nails with various designs that include many different style motifs (some are even wedding themed!)


So, don't be afraid to try something new on your nails. My suggestions are dark nail polishes and bright, metallic colors (my favorite metallic is Avon's purple metallic color: it dries the fastest out of all my polishes). And if you're feeling especially creative, nail art pens are helpful to get the achieved design that you want, like an animal print. And if you're really daring, there are tons of nail appliqués, like rhinestones, that you can get at  your local drugstore to play with. 


Here's a cool little video showing how they make the nail art in Japan. It's a 3-D blossom. 


I want it. 




-Jill

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

10 Beauty Investments Worth Making, Plus...

I'm the kind of girl who saves up all of her money for a trip to Sephora. I always look for good deals on products, but the next ten are worth the money. Each of these products is in my makeup bag or bathroom and I've been hooked on them for a while. So get ready for the best ten products the stores have to offer this season and beyond.




1. Rosebud Salve (strawberry is my personal fave): $6-The do-it-all balm. It's great for dry skin and especially for lips; it keeps them moist and soft all day, beating chapstick by a long shot. I've even used it to tame a flyaway or two!

2. Sephora by O.P.I. Nail Polish in Dark Room: $9-Style.com raves about this color as do I. It's the perfect color for both fall and winter

3. Mixed Chicks Deep Conditioner: $11-Another style.com fave. I just had to try it when I heard about it and it is great and produces soft, luscious hair.

4. Tarte Emphas-Eyes Liner: $18-A "green" pick at Sephora, and a long-time fave of mine, it looks great in black and plum, which proves to be a great, not-so-intense color that still gives your eyes definition.

5. Code Blue: $18-A great treatment for sunburns, acne, or any type of soothing for skin.

6. Bare Minerals Mineral Veil: $19-A great transluscent mattifying powder to lock in liquid foundation or concealer. A plus, it has SPF 15.

7. Diorshow Mascara: $24-This mascara gives lashes phenomenal length and volume. It's definitely my go-to mascara.

8. Smashbox Blush: $24-Smashbox is known for great products (think photo-finish primer, another must-have), and this is no exception. This blush gives a radiant and natural glow. My shade of choice is Bare.

9. Juicy Couture Fragrance Pen Set: $35-I absolutely adore all three Juicy Couture fragrances. For a limited time, get a .33 oz spray of all three scents at Sephora. This is great for purses and on-the-go.

10. Clinique Radiance: $55- This is a bit of a splurge but it's so worth it. It works like a peel, so if you have skin that needs exfoliating or have redness left from acne and want to speed up the healing process, this is for you. Style.com raves about this as well, but be careful with this one--its powerful, so you might want to see your dermatologist before using it.

xoxo Elise

Plus...

I’m in the market for a new primer. I got a sample from Sephora which I absolutely adore. Problem: it’s ridiculously priced. So I'm asking you, my beloved fashionistas and beauty mavens, to send any suggestions my way! I'm looking for a primer that will make my skin look fantastic, will minimize the need for touch-ups and won't break the bank. I would greatly appreciate any help!

Drugstore Essentials


I love expensive makeup as much as the next girl, but there are just some things that I need to survive the day that I can always find at my drug store down the street. I always keep these things close at hand, just in case of emergency.

1. Burt’s Bees Beeswax Chapstick – I am OBSESSED with this stuff. Literally, I am never seen without it and I always have it on me for the occasional dry-lip nightmare. This stuff moisturizes your lips like no other and also keeps a protective shield around them so you don’t have to reapply it all the time

2. Physicians Formula Conceal Rx - This liquid concealer is a little bit more expensive than most, but this stuff covers everything. Even the reddest blemishes blend right into your skin when you put this formula on your face. It’s also great for dark acne scars and bags under your eyes. Since it’s from physicians’ formula, it is oil-free and fragrance free, which is good news for people with oily skin like mine. 

3. Covergirl Professional All-in-One Curved Brush Mascara in Black – This is the mascara I use for going out for the weekend. Since the brush is curved, it helps you get more of a curl to your eyelashes and coats them evenly. Also, my eye allergies do not react to this mascara, which is a definite plus.

4. OPI Nail Lacquer in Not so Bora-Bora-ing Pink -  This stuff will stay on your nails for days without any touch-ups. Plus, this color is subdued enough to go with any outfit, yet bright enough to be noticed.

5. Organic Cotton Rounds – My eyes would literally crust over if I did not have these. I use them to take off as well as put on makeup as well as apply my toner in the morning and before I go to bed. Plus they’re completely organic and delightfully green!

-Jill


If thou cannot work it, thou shall not wear it! Ring Day 2009

Although I love the simplicity that a uniform provides my routine, I live for the days when i get to get all dressed up for school. It saddens me, however when people with incredible fashion potential do not live up to it! It also saddens me that Jill and I did not get to take pics of our fabulous outfits. I fail to understand how people can make fashion mistakes. Some over do it and some ruin a great concept by not holding themselves well. Super Sad! Yet, among the fashion blunders, the girls who can't walk in shoes, VPL--the numero uno crime of fashion--and simply poorly put together outfits, I spot gems. Today was no exception. Whether it was a prim-and-proper frock made edgy with a pair of spiky heels, or the classic Aubrey black dress, I was impressed. It's pretty fantastic to see the girls' differences in style but to also see them unified over a show-stopping outfit. I live for the outfits that are individual, creative, and timeless and I envy those who can really get creative and produce something eccentric yet stunningly beautiful. So I urge you to share what you think the mortal sins of fashion are and what you think makes an outfit great. To quote a friend of my sister's (this is for you Ebere!), and our lovely subtitle,  "If thou cannot work it, thou shall not wear it!"

Tuesday, December 01, 2009

Elise and Jill: The Girls Behind Frock It Out

I have always wanted to create a fashion blog. It was just something that seemed like a good fit for me. So here it is, my introduction to the fashion world. A little bit about myself…


Writing is my passion and my life and fashion is my muse. I grew up the eldest of four children, three of us being girls, so needless to say, our lives have been filled with fashion. My mom had, still has actually, very good taste and has always taught us to create an individual style. She is also an English teacher, which explains my passion for the written word. This is something I have wanted to pursue for my entire life and I intend to as a career, whether or not medical school gets the best of me.

My goal is to, along with Jill, put my passion for clothing, jewelry, beauty, and details into a form in which you can feel it just as much. This blog will consist of designers, the up-and-coming in fashion, naturally. But even further, drawing inspiration from my friends and peers, I will show you what style is all about for me. So I encourage you to take on this journey with us, learn a little something, and help us learn a bit about your tastes and ways in which you incorporate high fashion into your life. Fashion is beyond the superficial. Its is affected by the times, by politics, by everything. And don't dare think that you aren't into fashion. I know you're affected by it first and foremost because you are reading this, and secondly, because, in the words of some of the best fashion editors, you have to get dressed when you wake up in the morning.

xoxo Elise


What made me want to start this blog in partnership with Elise is (a) my secret and intense passion for the written word (that is, unfortunately, now not so secret) and (b) my desire to share my views on fashion with the rest of the world, let others take a look at me, and either say “I love it!” or “I hate it!” and draw inspiration from that. Inspiration and determination is what drives us as human beings to push the envelope. And that is what I intend to do.


I am truly fascinated with the fashion world. I can’t really fathom how there are so many different individual styles that are just in your own city, not including the fashion world outside of your own microcosm, yet they still manage to all work together to create what we know today as “the fashion world.” And there is more than just the clothes, it’s the whole look. It’s the makeup, the hair, that awesome bangle you saw last week at a coffee shop on someone else’s wrist that can really pull everything together. People don’t like fashion because it’s fashionable or because they want to look nice. They like fashion because it’s in their genes and their jeans.

xoxo Jill